Advancing Regional Water Sustainability: NWPA Year in Review

​In 2025, the Northwest Water Planning Alliance (NWPA) continued to collaboratively plan for and advance solutions for water supply challenges. From continuing to convene the Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) as a forum for elected officials, utility and resource managers, and others to learn about the latest water supply research and discuss its implications, to developing actionable recommendations for the Executive Committee (EC), the NWPA strengthened the region’s capacity to plan for a sustainable water future. As the region looks to 2026, this year’s progress provides a solid foundation for communities to implement local water sustainability actions.

Water Supply Sustainability Plan Adopted
In May, the NWPA formally adopted the Water Supply Sustainability Plan (WSSP), marking a significant milestone for the region. Developed in partnership with the Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning and Illinois-Indiana Sea Grant, the WSSP provides a roadmap for communities to take voluntary steps toward ensuring the long-term sustainability of water supply sources across the NWPA region. The plan emphasizes water conservation and local water supply planning as essential strategies for addressing the region’s key challenges, including excessive drawdown of deep aquifers, degraded water quality in shallow sources, and regulatory and financial barriers to securing alternative supplies. 

Strengthening water planning through groundwater research
Throughout 2025, the TAC engaged with experts from the Illinois State Water Survey (ISWS), Illinois State Geological Survey (ISGS), and United States Geological Survey (USGS) to increase understanding of local groundwater conditions and discuss how emerging research can inform water planning. The TAC heard updates on Kane county shallow groundwater modeling, aquifer mapping, statewide groundwater assessments, and climate impacts to groundwater recharge, learning how new wells, enhanced mapping tools, and improved real-time data access have strengthened the region’s ability to monitor water levels and water quality trends. The TAC discussed how concerns about declining water levels, climate variability, and pollutants such as arsenic, chloride, microplastics, and PFAS, underscore the importance of groundwater monitoring systems capable of identifying emerging risks.   

Addressing water governance and policy challenges
TAC meetings throughout 2025 also highlighted how state and regional policy issues shape water planning. The Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning (CMAP) presentation on their report, Securing Illinois’ Water Future, underscored how Illinois’ outdated 1983 Water Use Act and limited groundwater oversight leave the state vulnerable to long-term aquifer depletion, pointing to the need for modernized governance, a funded high-capacity well review process, and improved water-use reporting. The UIC Government Finance Research Center’s analysis of water-rate setting showed wide variation in pricing practices across Illinois and emphasized the importance of coordinated, transparent approaches to ensure equitable access to safe, affordable water. Engineering Enterprises Inc. provided lead service line replacement updates, prompting discussions about approaching regulatory deadlines, compliance strategies, and substantial funding needs. Across these topics, it was clear that stronger governance frameworks, improved data systems, sustained funding, and regional coordination will be essential to addressing the region's water challenges. 

Using Outreach to Build Community Awareness
Public education and outreach continued as a focus for the TAC in 2025. Beginning in spring, the TAC helped shape a traveling library exhibit, planned to launch in 2026, to raise community awareness of regional water supply, water quality, and conservation needs. A subcommittee led by Kane County was formed to guide exhibit development in partnership with the Gail Borden Library District. Kane County, in partnership with Illinois-Indiana Sea Grant and Kane County Extension, also launched its Conserve Water for Kane program that helps residents use water more efficiently. Work continued on regional chloride-reduction initiatives, such as SaltSmart.org. Together, these efforts show NWPA’s commitment to helping residents understand and care for their local water resources.

​Looking ahead
​As the NWPA enters 2026, the region is positioned to translate this year's accomplishments into action. Adoption of the WSSP, coupled with improved understanding of groundwater research, clearer policy priorities, and expanded public outreach, has better prepared communities to address water challenges. Moving forward will require continued collaboration among elected officials, utilities, researchers, and residents to ensure a sustainable water supply for generations to come. Together, we've built a strong foundation for the work ahead, thanks to your dedication and participation in the NWPA in 2025. We wish you and your families a joyful holiday season and look forward to continued progress in the new year!