New Manual Helps Communities Develop Water Supplies

The WateReuse Association announces the release of an indispensible new publication designed to help communities address the need for a sustainable, drought-proof water supply, while protecting public health and the environment. The Manual of Practice on How to Develop a Water Reuse Program provides a standardized planning approach for communities to develop and analyze new water reuse projects.

Using a concise, easy-to-understand format, this manual provides a step-by-step approach for planning a successful project. Each step of the process from design and construction to developing a financing plan and conducting public outreach is outlined in vivid detail that will help the reader avoid any missteps. With the benefit of this publication, communities can develop better planned projects-which draw from the lessons learned from established programs-and achieve greater public acceptance, successful implementation, and fulfillment of project objectives.

"Water resources across the United States and around the world are under unprecedented stress from climate change and increasing demand on available supplies," said WateReuse Association Executive Director Wade Miller. "Many communities can no longer afford to rely on a single source to meet water supply demands. In the 21st century, water is much too valuable to use just once."

The manual was authored by a group of professionals that are both knowledgeable and experienced in the water reuse industry. They include Thomas Holliman of Lee & Ro; Richard Atwater of the Inland Empire Utilities Agency; James Crook, an environmental engineering consultant; and Lois Humphreys of TRG Associates. John Morris of the Metropolitan Water District of Southern California rounded out the team as a technical reviewer. Each person involved has decades of experience in planning and implementing various aspects of water reuse projects. The advice in this manual comes from professionals that have first-hand knowledge of what it takes to develop a successful water reuse program.

There are many good reasons to develop a water reuse program. Reclaimed water can shift demand away from over-appropriated rivers, lakes, and groundwater; reduce discharges into receiving waters; and restore critical habitats and wetlands. Reclaimed water can also shift demand from drinking water or be purified to augment the rivers, lakes, and groundwater that supply drinking water. The total energy required to produce reclaimed water is often less than the energy required to develop, treat, and convey traditional water supplies long distances, which in turn reduces greenhouse gas emissions.

Climate change and dwindling water supply sources require creative options for present and future water needs. Water treatment technologies have improved health and extended the lives of people around the world. Today's advanced treatment technologies allow communities to speed up the natural water cycle so that water can be used many times in one community. The Manual of Practice on How to Develop a Water Reuse Program will help communities get started.

Download Order Form

View List of Publications