Since a 2006 executive order called for the creation of a statewide framework for regional water supply planning, as well as the establishment of two pilot regional planning groups, Illinois has been on the path toward sustainable water supply planning and management. As the pilot groups (one in northeastern Illinois, one focused on the Mahomet Aquifer) complete their intial planning cycle, many questions remain. How will the state encourage implementation of these stakeholder-driven plans? When will additional regional groups be established? How can we ensure sustained funding and technical assistance for research, planning and action?

“Before the Wells Run Dry” recommends a series of strategies to protect our shared water resources. This half-day forum features an examination of the report and panel discussions on four topics paramount to Illinois’ water future:

- Reinventing infrastructure investment

- Linking land use planning and water supply analysis

- Spurring demand management solutions

- Optimizing Illinois’ Lake Michigan diversion

The “Before the Wells Run Dry” forum is graciously sponsored by Illinois American Water and Christopher B. Burke Engineering.

Recorded Tuesday, October 13, 2009 at Drinker Biddle Gardner Carton.