Curiously, the previous-generation product wasn't rain-proof, but that's been resolved now -- a new water- and dust-resistant housing is designed to let water flow through the eyepieces without accumulation.

ENGADGET

On January 17, 1900, the locks of the canal were opened and water began to flow from Lake Michigan downstream towards New Orleans.

FORBES: Currents Of The U.S. Economy Run In Chicago River's Twisted History

New water heading into the river was shut off Thursday night, slowing down its flow, but the task nonetheless remained difficult.

CNN: March 16, 2013 -- Updated 0041 GMT (0841 HKT)

U.S.-based NGO Water for People is helping lead the charge in this area with the development of a new system called FLOW (Field Level Operations Watch).

CNN: Going with the 'FLOW' towards better sanitation