The Annual McHenry County Water Forum provides a festive atmosphere where residents, businesses and elected officials learn what makes the regions water supplies special, the threats to our water resources, and how water resources can be protected into the future. 

This free, fully catered program is held every fall at the McHenry County College and features presentations by scientists, planners, and engineers who specialize in water resources.  By the end of the program, attendees have a more solid understanding about water resources in McHenry County and are better informed to make decisions affecting the water supplies we all depend on.

This year's Water Forum will focus on Stormwater with an emphasis on water quality, flooding, land use, and resiliency.  We have a great line-up of expert speakers and our guests will learn where our water comes from, the challenges to water quality and quantity, and what McHenry County can expect from a rapidly changing climate.

The free program will begin with delicious food served buffet-style and the opportunity to speak directly with the event sponsors who are experts in the field of water resources.  Thanks to these wonderful sponsors, the catering will once again be provided by Dukes Ale House and Kitchen.  This open period will be followed by fascinating presentations by our guest speakers:

Scott Kuykendall, Water Resources Specialist, McHenry County Planning and Development
Water Quality, Flooding, Land Use, and Resiliency in McHenry County

Ryan Bieber, Urban Conservation Specialist, McHenry-Lake Soil and Water Conservation District
Preventing Soil Erosion and Sediment Pollution

Trent Ford, Illinois State Climatologist, Illinois State Water Survey
Weather, Stormwater, and a Changing Climate in McHenry County

Our goal for the Water Forum is for our guests to go home smarter...and fuller...then they arrived.  With your help we can make this happen!  No registration is required, just show up with your curiosity and an appetite!

If you are interested in learning more about this year's Water Forum or our past events please visit our Water Forum Page. 

 Note: People with professional Certification through the following professional organizations can earn continuing education credits/hours by attending the Water Forum.  Contact Scott Kuykendall in advance so we can prepare your Certificate.  The Certificates can be picked up at the end of the program.

* Illinois Association of Floodplain and Stormwater Management (IAFSM) 1.5 hours
* Water Quality Association (WQA) .15 credits

For more information contact Scott Kuykendall, McHenry County Water Resources Specialist, at SHKuykendall@mchenrycountyil.gov