Water Supply Planning Hub
Water is one of the region’s most valuable resources. Communities throughout the Middle Illinois Basin depend on reliable water supplies to support public health, economic development, agriculture, industry, recreation, and healthy ecosystems.
The Water Supply Planning Hub provides a central location for learning about the region’s water resources, where water comes from, how it is used, and the planning efforts helping ensure reliable supplies for future generations.
Understanding our Water Supply
Surface Water
Surface water includes rivers, lakes, and reservoirs. In the Middle Illinois Basin, rivers serve as important sources of public water supply for many communities.
Communities served by Illinois American Water, like the City of Peoria, receive water supplied through a regional system connected to the Illinois River, while communities such as Pontiac and Streator rely on the Vermilion River as their primary water source.
Groundwater
Groundwater is stored beneath the earth’s surface in underground geologic formations known as aquifers. Aquifers provide important water supplies throughout Illinois and can serve as a reliable source during periods of drought or changing surface water conditions.
One of the region’s most significant groundwater resources is the Sankoty Aquifer, which supplies water to well fields used by Illinois American Water.