Commercial Rainwater Harvesting

Shedd Aquarium :: Chicago, IL

The Shedd Aquarium in Chicago commissioned Aquascape Construction to install a 3000-gallon Aquascape Rainwater Harvesting System adjacent to its outdoor terrace. An 80-foot waterfall was built to replicate a watershed that can be replenished with rainwater from the property. The self-sustaining water feature provides a riparian zone, which is instrumental in water quality for surface run-off. By incorporating the sub-surface reservoir, rainwater run-off is better managed and provides an aesthetic waterfall feature at the same time. Visitors to the Shedd Aquarium, as well as passers-by on the lakefront’s paved bike path, can interact with the water feature. A bridge traverses the stream from the dining terrace to the grass beyond. Native plants soften the edges of the rocky feature and provide a landing spot for birds, butterflies, and bees.