How Do They Clean That Thing? A Deep Dive into the Chicago River
The Chicago River. A meandering ribbon of blue that cuts through the heart of the Windy City. It's a place where skyscrapers cast long shadows and the smell of hot dogs lingers in the air. But let's be honest, it's also a river. And rivers, as we all know, have a nasty habit of getting, well, dirty. So, how exactly do they keep this urban waterway from turning into a floating landfill? Let's dive in.
The River's Not So Secret Life
Before we get into the nitty-gritty of cleaning, let's talk about what makes the Chicago River so... unique. Once upon a time, it was a one-way ticket to Lake Michigan. But then, someone (a very smart someone) decided to reverse the flow. This was a brilliant move, considering Lake Michigan is Chicago's drinking water source. So, now the river flows away from the lake, carrying all sorts of... stuff with it.
The Clean Team
Cleaning a river is no small feat. It's like trying to tidy up after a frat party that's lasted a century. But fear not, there's a dedicated team of river rangers, environmental warriors, and general water-loving folks working hard to keep the Chicago River sparkling.
- The Big Guns: The Metropolitan Water Reclamation District (MWRD) is the primary force behind the river's cleanup. They operate wastewater treatment plants that process billions of gallons of water every day. Think of them as the river's personal spa.
- The Volunteers: Countless organizations and individuals pitch in to help. They organize clean-up days, remove debris, and educate the public about water pollution. It's a beautiful thing to see people come together for a common cause, even if that cause is a river.
- Nature's Helpers: Believe it or not, nature has a hand in cleaning up the river too. Wetlands, green roofs, and rain gardens help to filter pollutants before they reach the river. It's like having a built-in filtration system.
The Battle Against Grossness
Cleaning up a river is one thing, keeping it clean is another. The river faces a constant barrage of challenges, from litter and sewage overflows to industrial pollution. But progress is being made. Water quality has improved dramatically over the years, and fish are even returning to the river.
It's important to remember that everyone has a role to play in keeping our waterways clean. Small actions, like properly disposing of waste and reducing our use of harmful chemicals, can make a big difference.
How To... River-Related FAQs
- How to help clean the Chicago River: Volunteer with a local environmental organization, participate in clean-up events, and reduce your water usage.
- How to prevent water pollution: Dispose of waste properly, avoid using harmful chemicals, and support policies that protect water quality.
- How to learn more about the Chicago River: Visit the Friends of the Chicago River website, take a river tour, or read a book about the river's history.
- How to enjoy the Chicago River: Take a boat tour, go kayaking, or simply relax on the riverwalk and enjoy the view.
- How to become a river ranger: Many organizations offer volunteer opportunities to monitor water quality and remove debris.