Industrial Use of
Surface Waters in Illinois
DONALD H. SCHNEPPER, Associate Scientist
RALPH L. EVANS, Head
Water Quality Section
Illinois State Water Survey
Peoria, Illinois
INTRODUCTION
During the past several years the quality and quantity of water has been the
topic for much discussion. This has been reflected annually, since 1956, in federal
legislation and more recently to a lesser degree, by state governments. As the result of newspaper, radio and television coverage, together with the increasing use
of surface waters for whole-body contact such as bathing and water skiing, there
are more persons who are informed, or misinformed, about water quality and usage.
It is a function of certain state agencies to keep the constituents informed of the
use and quality of water resources within and adjoining their respective states.
We in Illinois are particularly mindful of this obligation for three basic reasons: (1) we have the largest population of any midwestern state, (2) we are a major industrial state encompassing about 21,000 manufacturing companies, and (3)
we are not exceeded by any other state in the pumpage and use of fresh surface
waters (1).
Asa contribution to such information the Illinois State Water Survey has compiled with excellent cooperation from industry in the state, data regarding the industrial usage of surface water for the periods 1950-51,   1959-60 and 1964-65.
The conclusions set forth in this presentation shall pertain to that compilation
with particular emphasis on the most current investigation.
INVESTIGATION PROCEDURES
Information regarding the industrial use of surface waters was obtained by
questionnaire and personal visits. Communications with Associations of Commerce
and Water Utility companies were particularly helpful in determining the location
of new industries.   The questionnaire sought answers to the following:
1. Source of surface water.
2. Who supplied water -- industry or water utility.
3. Daily maximum, minimum and average pumpage.
4. Uses made of water.
5. Effect of water use on turbidity and temperatures.
6. Disposition of used water.
7. Was pre-treatment required.
SURFACE WATER QUANTITY
In 1950-51 the total average daily pumpage was 7680 million gal per day (2).
- 36 -