As the world continues to
struggle with the impacts from COVID-19, we recognize that our members have
shifted their focus to responding to public concerns and ensuring workforce
safety while working hard to maintain continuity of service and protect public
health. The WateReuse Association staff and leadership understand the
challenges that you are facing.
As all of us navigate this
public health crisis, we want to ensure that you continue to have access to the
tools, resources, and most importantly— the community of peers— that can help
you do your job better and advance your organization through this unprecedented
time. With this in mind, WateReuse is reviewing our resources, tools and
advocacy priorities to ensure we are focused on what’s most important and
valuable to you. We will continue to provide you with the most up-to-date
information on what Congress and federal agencies are doing to support your
ability to service your customers, continue to be a forum for shared learning
and networking among your peers, and continue to share best management
practices on an array of water recycling topics.
On a more personal note, as
colleagues, peers and friends, we wanted to convey to you that as leaders of
organizations, we understand how daunting, at times, this moment feels in our
lives. We too are struggling to ensure our staff and families are safe and
healthy, ensure continuity of operations and delivery of service, ensure our
kids are learning, ensure that loved ones who may have lost a job due to this
crisis can manage financially, and on and on.
As we all struggle to confront
one of the greatest, most deadly and most remarkable challenges of our
lifetimes, we also remind ourselves that there is much to be thankful for and
that we will make it through this. Pat is grateful that her family members in
Italy are safe and that the worst of the crisis in Italy may be past us.
Gilbert is thankful that his family, friends, and staff are healthy and have
come together, because of this pandemic and social distancing, and are
communicating more and better than they ever have before.
And we are thankful for our
members who make up our WateReuse family, and hopeful that through this moment
of disconnection, we can help maintain our personal and professional
connections to each other.
Thank you, and please stay safe.
Just Released: WateReuse President Gilbert Trejo Celebrates Association’s Successes in 30th Anniversary World Water Interview
In an interview with World Water, WateReuse Association President Gilbert Trejo discusses the growth of water reuse, the importance of water reuse advocacy, and the association’s past successes and vision for the future. Released last week, the March/April issue includes a special section on water reuse that highlights the release of the National Water Reuse Action Plan, previews the 35th Annual WateReuse Symposium, and profiles Tucson Water’s efforts to revitalize the Santa Cruz River with recycled water, among other articles. WateReuse partners with the Water Environment Federation to produce the special section in three issues per year.
Washington Update
COVID-19 Relief Efforts Continue in Congress
Over the past several weeks, Congress enacted three pieces of legislation to provide aid to households, businesses, and local and state governments impacted by the coronavirus pandemic. The House and Senate are considering a fourth legislative package that would increase relief funding for small businesses. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell’s (R-KY) attempt to secure a unanimous consent agreement in the Senate was blocked late last week by Democrats, who are seeking to include additional aid for hospitals and state and local governments in the package. Given Democratic demands, Senator McConnell will likely need to make concessions to them in order to enact a bill under unanimous consent procedures before the Senate returns from recess on April 20.
In addition to passing a fourth relief package, Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) has indicated that she intends to push a large economic stimulus bill in the weeks ahead. House Democrats have offered their Moving Forward Frameworkas a starting point for discussions for that package. See the articles below on advocacy engagement for information on how you can help advocate for greater investment in water recycling as a tool for economic development and recovery.
Virtual Water Reuse Advocacy: Join Water Week Webinars on April 22 and April 29
While the nation’s response to the pandemic will keep us
from meeting in person during Water Week 2020, the last few weeks have only
underscored the importance of the sector’s continued advocacy with federal
policymakers. The virtual Water Week 2020 will provide an opportunity to
advance recycled water policy priorities and bring together water professionals
across the country April 26 – May 1 to bring awareness to our priorities and
advocate as one voice for the sector.
Though the in-person National Water Policy Fly-In was cancelled,
please join WateReuse, NACWA, WEF, and WRF for two complimentary webinars to
supercharge your virtual advocacy and hear the latest from key federal
policymakers.
Join us on Wednesday, April 22, 2:00 – 3:30 PM ET for the first webinar, Water Advocacy Update and How to Virtually Lobby Congress During Water Week 2020, to hear the latest update on Congressional advocacy and learn how to engage during Water Week. The webinar will present the latest updates from Capitol Hill, the water sector’s key issues and talking points, and tools and tips for engaging during Water Week – such as setting up virtual congressional office visits and messaging resources for social media and community outreach during Water Week and beyond.
Join us again on Wednesday, April 29, 2:00 – 3:30 PM ET for the Water Week 2020 Webinar. We know you value hearing directly from EPA and Congress when you are in Washington, so we are bringing the latest insights to your computer during Water Week 2020. The webinar will include the latest water policy developments from EPA senior staff, messages from Members of Congress about the value of water sector advocacy, and updates from key Water Week partners.
Action Needed: Submit Your “Shovel-Ready” Water Recycling Projects for Stimulus Investment
As noted above, in the coming weeks, Congress will be considering
whether and in what form to invest in infrastructure development as an economic
stimulus mechanism. In preparation for negotiations over a larger economic
stimulus package in the weeks and months ahead, we want
to make sure that Congress is aware that shovel-ready water recycling projects
can assist in our country’s economic recovery.
To that end, if your utility or business has new projects or
project expansions that are primed to move forward in the next 12 to 24 months,
we want to know.
Congressional staff are looking for the following information
ahead of Congress’ return later this month:
What would you be able to accomplish in the next 12-24 months if
you had an additional infusion of funding?
How much federal and non-federal money could you spend on the
project over the next 12-24 months?
Is there an existing federal program through which this money
could be invested?
Do you have any sense of the economic benefits that this project
would generate in your community? Any idea how many jobs would be created
or sustained given an additional infusion of funds?
If you have information regarding shovel-ready water recycling projects or expansions, please tell WateReuse about it by sending your information to Greg Fogel (gfogel@watereuse.org).
COVID-19 Resources for Water Recycling Agencies, Businesses, and Institutions
Federal Agencies Provide Guidance on Water and COVID-19
Federal agencies are providing guidance to water professionals and the public on water transmission and COVID-19. Use the chart below to find useful resources to help your organization navigate issues surrounding the coronavirus pandemic.
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Dedicated COVID-19 information website hosting information on disinfectants, drinking and wastewater, and COVID-19 news.
Office of Grants and Debarment provides information “to applicants for, recipients of, EPA grants and cooperative agreements regarding impacts of COVID-19” in a Frequent Questions document.
WateReuse Members and Partners Provide COVID-19 Guidance
National water sector organizations, state agencies, researchers, and businesses are contributing information to help the water sector stay informed and combat the spread of coronavirus. The following resources are available:
WateReuse Member Spotlight: COVID-19 Experiences and Responses
Researchers Partner with Water Recycling Agencies to Test for COVID-19
Researchers from the Southern Nevada Water Authority, University of Arizona, and several other universities are coordinating with water reuse and wastewater agencies to test for the presence of COVID-19 in influent wastewater. Widespread monitoring of wastewater across regions and time could provide critical information related to the prevalence of COVID-19 across the nation, time series comparisons with clinically confirmed cases, and an early warning system of the reemergence of the virus. The researchers are asking partnering agencies to freeze influent wastewater for testing at regular intervals. The research team also released a fact sheet last week on the Implications of COVID-19 for Water, Wastewater, and Water Reuse. For more information, contact Daniel Gerrity at SNWA.
Clean Water Services Staff Make their Own Hand Sanitizer and Disinfecting Wipes
Employees of Clean Water Services in Oregon have taken on a few new duties. In response to the shortage of commercially available products, staff is producing hand sanitizer and disinfecting wipes to help protect employees that continue doing the important work of maintaining our treatment plant systems. See LinkedIn
Xylem Shares How Digital Water Solutions Can Help Combat COVID-19
After surveying 25 utilities in the early days of the COVID-19 outbreak, WateReuse Association member Xylem believes those that invested in digitizing their workflow and operations fared better. In an article published last week, Xylem Vice President and General Manager, Albert Cho, discussed the important role that secure digital technologies is playing in the resilience of operations during these times of crisis. Coming out of Covid-19, Cho says investing in secure digital transformation will become a central part of utility resilience strategies. Read More.
Share Your Story!
Please submit your COVID-19 story or your company’s COVID-19 response (up to 50 words) for inclusion in a future issue of WateReuse Review. Email your information to info@watereuse.org by Thursday at 12 pm ET.
State Updates and Member Profiles
Welcome New Member!
The WateReuse Association welcomes the following new member:
California: WateReuse California Elects New Board Members and Officers
WateReuse California (WRCA) held a virtual election to
select new Board members and officers. As recommended by the WRCA Nominating
Committee, the following were elected as the new officers, at large trustee
board members and reappointments to the board:
New Officers
President:
Paul Sciuto, General Manager, Monterey One Water
President
Elect: Dave Pedersen, General Manager, Las Virgenes Municipal Water District
Treasurer:
Prabhakar Somavarapu, General Manager, Sacramento Regional County Sanitation
District
Secretary:
Kim Thorner, General Manager, Olivenhain Municipal Water District
Director:
Elizabeth Dawson, Engineering Manager, El Dorado Irrigation District
Past
President: Rich Nagel, Jacobs
New
At Large Trustee Board Members
Allen
Carlisle, General Manager, Padre Dam Municipal Water District
Paul
Cook, General Manager, Irvine Ranch Water District
Robert
Ferrante, General Manager, Sanitation Districts of Los Angeles County
Mark
Millan, Principal, Data Instincts
Michael
Carbajal, Public Works Director, City of Fresno
Reappointment
of Board Members
David Pedersen, General Manager, Las Virgenes Municipal Water District
Paul Sciuto, General Manager, Monterey One Water
Dawn Taffler, One Water Practice Leader, Kennedy Jenks
California: Governor Suspends Service Disconnections Amid COVID-19 Outbreak
On April 2, Governor Gavin Newsom issued Executive Order N-42-20, Restrictions on Shutoffs, which restricts Public Water Systems (PWS) from disconnecting water service to residences and critical infrastructures due to non-payment. The Executive Order also requested that the California State Water Board identify ways to support water systems and customers, such as this web page that provides COVID-19 information and allows customers to report water shutoff issues.
Massachusetts: Wastewater Study Indicates Coronavirus Cases are Undercounted
Researchers tested samples of wastewater from an urban treatment plant in March and concluded that there are likely hundreds more people with coronavirus in the area than officials thought. There were about 450 confirmed coronavirus cases in the area of the treatment facility, but researchers estimated that the number of people actually infected with coronavirus is between 2,300 and 115,000. The study’s authors emphasized that while they can detect the virus in urine and feces, people are not at risk of getting the disease through sewage. Read More
New Mexico: Partnership Formed to Advance Produced Water Reuse in Agriculture
Two midstream companies have formed a partnership that they hope will lead to a treatment facility in Lea County that recycles oil and gas wastewater for use in agriculture. New Mexico-based Hungry Horse Environmental Services will provide the land and Wyoming-based Encore Environmental Group will provide technology to recycle produced water for agricultural use. New Mexico has established a consortium of researchers and government officials to research regulations on oil and gas produced water reuse. The two companies plan to work with the consortium to develop a conservation-by-design system that complies with the regulations the consortium develops. Read More.
Qatar: Recycled Water for Cooling Saves 2.2 Billion Gallons of Potable Water Annually
As much as 70% of Qatar’s electricity demand is for air conditioning. District cooling (DC) is a system that uses 40% less energy and with recycled water, significantly less potable water. Qatar has 20 DC plants using recycled water for the cooling plant operation, which saved about 2.2 billion gallons of potable water last year. Minimizing air conditioning’s electricity and potable water demand will help Qatar effectively cool the 2022 FIFA World Cup stadiums. Read more.
WateReuse Communications Tools and Resources
Understanding Potable Reuse: New Video Targets Public Health and Medical Community
The WateReuse Association’s new video, Understanding Potable Reuse: A Safe and Sustainable Supply, discusses the proven, science-based treatment processes that are used safely in communities around the world. In the video, experts from academia, public health, and utilities discuss the value of engaging with the medical community and including discussions of water in public health education. The video was produced as part of the WateReuse Public Health and Medical Community Initiative.
Conferences and Events
Webcast: Breaking Down Implementation Barriers for Onsite Non-Potable Water Systems
What are the key components of a successful onsite non-potable water system? Join us April 15 at 2 pm to learn about a Water Research Foundation guidance manual and interactive training modules to tackle critical knowledge gaps businesses and utilities. The presentation will cover treatment goals, effective design, strategies for effective operation and monitoring, and regulatory and permitting frameworks. Register Now!
Webcast: Managing Teams Remotely During Times of Crisis
Managing teams remotely is challenging in the best of times, but in times of crisis, executives and team leaders need to develop an entirely new set of management skills to ensure their teams feel supported and cared for as they work to remain productive. Join us on April 16 at 12 pm ET to learn from Dr. Bill Mitchell, COO of MoreTalent and former executive of fortune 500 companies, who specializes in helping leaders develop exceptional performing teams through periods of uncertainty and crisis. Register Now!
Webcast: America’s Water Infrastructure Act – Implications for Water Reuse and COVID-19
Are water recycling utilities well prepared to deal with the COVID-19 crisis and other potential future risks? Join us on April 21 at 2 pm ET for a discussion of America’s Water Infrastructure Act (AWIA) and risk assessment for utilities. AWIA requires all utilities serving 3,300 or more people to complete a risk and resilience assessment (RRA) for their water systems, followed by the completion of an emergency response plan. This presentation will discuss risk and risk perceptions in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. Register Now!
Inland Empire WateReuse Chapter Meeting will hold an in-person meeting and tour at the Inland Empire Utilities Agency’s large-scale Regional Water Recycling Plant No. 5 Expansion Project and Water Quality Laboratory. Please bring you PPE. Tuesday, May 30th, 2023 // 11:00 am – 1:30 pm
WateReuse is the only trade association that focuses solely on advancing laws, policy and funding to increase water reuse. Our niche strategy sets us apart from other organizations in the water industry.
Arizona has a long history of water reuse beginning in about 1926. As much as two-thirds of all treated wastewater generated in Arizona is reused for a variety purposes, including irrigation, environmental restoration, energy generation, and agriculture. Legislative authority for water reuse was granted to the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) in 1999 and reclaimed water rules focus on protecting water quality and human health. ADEQ is currently revising Arizona’s rules governing the use of recycled water. The first installment of new rules, effective January 1, 2018, allow permitting for direct potable reuse. In the next installment of rulemaking, ADEQ intends to adopt more detailed DPR criteria. Arizona has no indirect potable reuse (IPR) regulations, but IPR can be done under separate ADEQ groundwater protection permitting regulations. Other than graywater use, there are no specific rules allowing onsite or decentralized water reuse in Arizona.
Regulations
Recycled Water Rulemaking: Arizona Department of Environmental Quality is working on various recycled water regulations by consulting numerous stakeholders in the field. ADEQ also completed a triennial surface water quality review in 2019 in compliance with the Clean Water Act.
The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) has a reclaimed water program that is designed to promote water reuse in the state. The state’s Reclaimed Water Control Regulation was introduced in 2000. The regulation covers the use of reclaimed water for landscape and agricultural irrigation, fire protection, industrial, commercial, and urinal and toilet flushing. These uses correlate to three categories of water quality standards, additional filtration and disinfection treatment for specific uses, and treatment from localized treatment systems (“decentralized”). The state also runs grant programs, such as the Water Plan Grant fund established in 2018, to incentivize new water reuse projects.
Regulations and Policies
Regulation No. 11 – Direct Potable Reuse Regulation: On November 14, 2022, the Colorado Water Quality Control Commission provided final approval of a new Direct Potable Reuse (DPR) rule, incorporated into Regulation 11: Colorado’s Primary Drinking Water Regulation.
Increasing Water Resiliency through Collaboration in North Central Texas (Phase 2)
Multi-agency Reuse Programs: Lessons for Successful Collaboration (Phase 2)
Partnering: Accelerating Regional Integrated Water Management Solutions (Phase 2)
Onsite and Distributed Systems
Effective Online Microbial Monitoring for Onsite Water Reuse (Phase 4)
Off the Roof: Measuring Microbial Characteristics of Roof Runoff (Phase 1)
Successful Implementation of Onsite and Distributed Water Reuse Systems (Phase 1)
Risk-Based Guidance for Onsite Non-Potable Reuse: Progress and Opportunities (Phase 1)
Tackling water conservation, quality & policy evolution with district reuse (Phase 2)
Water Reuse for Corporate Campus in Austin, TX (Phase 3)
Potable Reuse
Approach to Implement the World’s Largest Potable Reuse System – Hyperion 2035 (Phase 2)
Los Angeles’ Headworks DPR Project: Implementing Direct Potable Reuse (Phase 2)
Valley Water’s planned potable reuse project with phased IPR and DPR (Phase 4)
When IPR is Not Enough (Phase 4)
Public Engagement and Communications
Bringing Communication Pros Together to Further Water Reuse (Phase 2)
Bumpy Road or Smooth Ride? Strategies for Mobile DPR Demonstrations (Phase 4)
Five Steps to Successful Community Support (Phase 3)
One Water: What Does It Mean to You? (Phase 1)
Thinking Big While Building Small: A Museum Quality Pure Water Demo (Phase 4)
Raise a Glass to Potable Reuse (Phase 4)
Regulatory
Comparison of Potable Reuse Regulations and Impacts to Project Implementation (Phase 1)
Collaboration in Action: Colorado DPR Rulemaking Process (Phase 3)
Compilation and Synthesis of US State Water Reuse Regulations (Phase 1)
Regulatory Challenges for Reuse of Produced Water via Land Application (Phase 2)
Reuse as a Water Quality Compliance Strategy: Challenges and Opportunities (Phase2)
Permitting a Potable Reuse System in the Midst of Regulatory Change in Florida (Phase 2)
Making Reuse Work – NPDES permit case studies for EPA WRAP Action Item 2.2.10 (Phase 1)
Research
Bureau of Reclamation Advanced Water Treatment Research Roadmap (Phase 4)
Demonstrating Greater LRVs across NF and RO Membranes–Results from WRF 4958 (Phase 1)
EEM-PARAFAC – Monitoring organic matter through the potable water cycle (Phase 1)
Identifying WRRF Impacts on AWT Performance (WRF 4833 Module A) (Phase 1)
Innovation in oxidation for reuse: A seamless pipeline (Phase 4)
Quantitative Relative Chemical Assessment: Filling the Gap (Phase 2)
Stormwater Capture and Reuse
Advancing Stormwater Capture and Use Policy, Research, and Action Priorities (Phase 1)
Aggregated Rain Grid Networks: PropTech Resilience and Adaptation Through Reuse (Phase 4)
Targeted Onsite Reuse for Integrated Water (Phase 2)
Treatment Strategies
Operational Considerations and Insights for Reliable CBAT Performance (Phase 4)
The Rise of UV/Chlorine and the Fall of UV/peroxide in Water Reuse (Phase 1)
Development of Performance and Health-Based Indicators for HRSD’s SWIFT Program (Phase 4)
Water Quality
The Fate of CECs in Pacific Northwest Reclaimed Water Infiltration (Phase 4)
Quantitative Microbial Risk Assessment of Water Reuse (Phase 3)
Role of WRFs in Managing PFAS Circulation through the Water Cycle (Phase 2)
PFAS in Wastewater Effluent: Meta-Analysis of Occurrence and GAC Removal (Phase 4)
Washington
Washington State encourages the use of reclaimed water by providing financial support and incentives, and by directing the Departments of Health and Ecology to coordinate to support the adoption of water recycling. The state developed water reclamation and reuse standards in the 1990’s and has been updating relevant regulations since then. Water reuse in Washington covers a wide range of applications, including landscape irrigation, flushing, groundwater recharge, industrial and commercial uses, and ecosystem restoration, among others.
Reclaimed Water Use (Revised Code of Washington §90.46.005): Washington State encourages the use of reclaimed water through financial support and incentives and directs the departments of health and ecology to coordinate so that reclaimed water can be developed and used to replace potable water, when appropriate, to supplement surface and groundwater supplies, and to benefit aquatic habitats. Applications include aquifer recharge and various non-potable uses.
Concerning risk-based water quality standards for on-site nonpotable water systems, H.B. 1184: In 2021, Washington state legislature passed and signed H.B. 1184 into law. The legislation directs the Washington Department of Health to develop state-wide risk-based water quality standards for the use of onsite non-potable water reuse systems in commercial and multi-family buildings.
North Carolina
North Carolina statute directs state regulatory agencies to consider water reuse as an alternative to surface water discharge. State rules governing water reuse are codified in Title 15A of the North Carolina Administration Code Subchapter 2T.0900. Reclaimed water in North Carolina may be used to a range of non-potable purposes, including irrigation, dust control, cooling and other industrial purposes, flushing, ponds and fountains, street sweeping and car washing, among others.
Regulations and Policies
Title 15A of the North Carolina Administration Code Subchapter 2T.0900: North Carolina’s water reuse policy and rule making statute, § 143 355.5, requires the Environmental Management Commission to “encourage and promote safe and beneficial reuse of treated wastewater as an alternative to surface water discharge.”
SB 163: Allows reclaimed water to be a source water for drinking water treatment.
Subchapter 02U- Reclaimed Water:The rules in this Subchapter set forth the requirements and procedures for application and issuance of permits for reclaimed water systems.
Non-Discharge Permitting: The North Carolina Department of Environmental Policy issues Non-Discharge Permits for reclaimed water.
Florida
Water reuse was established as a state objective in 1989 and the state has since created a supportive regulatory environment. Florida has regulations that specify requirements of how reclaimed water is to be treated depending on the use or application of the water. Approximately 820 million gallons per day of reclaimed water are used for beneficial purposes each year, including golf course irrigation, residential irrigation, agricultural irrigation, groundwater recharge and indirect potable reuse, industrial uses, fire protection, and wetlands.
The Florida Department of Environmental Protection is moving forward with Phase II of rulemaking to ensure proper regulation for implementation of potable reuse programs in the state of Florida. The rules amended in Chapter 62-610 F.A.C. Phase II Reuse of Reclaimed Water and Land Application will address updates necessary to be consistent with recommendations of the Potable Reuse Commission’s 2020 report “Advancing Potable Reuse in Florida: Framework for the Implementation of Potable Reuse in Florida” as required by Florida’s Clean Waterways Act of 2020.
Domestic Wastewater Facilities, Chapter 62-600, F.A.C.: Treatment and disinfection requirements for reuse of reclaimed water are established in Rules 62-600.530 and 62-600.440, F.A.C. Domestic wastewater must meet, at a minimum, a treatment standard of secondary treatment, basic disinfection and pH control in order to be reused as reclaimed water.
Water Implementation Rule, Chapter 62-40, F.A.C.: This chapter presents the overall state water policy, provides guidance for issuing consumptive use permits, establishes requirements for domestic wastewater treatment facilities, and creates a mandatory reuse program.
Florida Plumbing Code:The code incorporates building construction-related regulations for public and private buildings in the State of Florida.
The Watershed Protection Branch of Georgia’s Department of National Resources Environmental Protection Division (EPD) has a set of guidelines for Water Reclamation and Urban Water Reuse. The guidelines were revised in 2012 and encompass considerations, system and monitoring requirements, and design standards for urban water reuse in the state. The uses covered are industrial and non-potable reuse. In 2011, the state released Guidelines for Reclaimed Water Systems in Buildings for reuse water to be piped within buildings for flushing toilets and urinals and other approved uses. In In 2021, EPD released the state’s first indirect potable reuse guidelines. The guidelines are intended to help applicants navigate through the regulatory complexity of a potential indirect potable reuse project, help the appropriate programs within EPD coordinate with each other, and streamline the regulatory process.
The State of Wyoming Department of Environmental Quality has promulgated a regulation that broadly outlines the permitting process for water reuse systems.
The State Water Resources Control Board (Board) regulates water quality in California. The Board also develops statewide regulations for recycled water – potable and non-potable, including onsite reuse. The Board also provides funding through loans and grant programs for recycled water. The Regional Water Quality Control Board issues site specific water quality permits. The California Department of Water Resources manages water supply, including overseeing water conservation, groundwater and surface waters.
Water reuse has been and continues to be an important component of Pennsylvania’s water management toolbox. Industries have been reusing water within their facilities for decades to reduce operating costs. Many municipal and industrial wastewater treatment plants discharge treated water to streams and lakes, or land apply reclaimed water for additional treatment prior to recharging a groundwater aquifer. In many of these cases, the reclaimed water becomes a portion of the source water for a potable drinking water supply. The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) developed a guidance manual in 2012 for implementing water reuse in an environmentally protective manner in accordance with DEP regulations.
Virginia State Law, updated in 2020, details the treatment needs for various forms of reuse. State regulations have two levels of water quality pertaining to non-potable applications of recycled water. The state’s reuse program is evolving, with new policies being enacted in 2016, 2017, and 2020.
Administrative Code, Chapter 740: Definitions and General Program Requirements; Reclaimed Water Treatment, Standards, Monitoring Requirements and Reuses; Application and Technical Requirements
Vermont
Vermont’s Department of Environmental Conservation has promulgated rules related to graywater, as well as treatment standards for reclaimed water use.
The State of Utah has promulgated several regulations governing water reuse. This includes regulations related to approvals and permits for water reuse projects, system design requirements, aquifer recharge, and graywater systems.
Regulations
Rule 3: Design Requirements for Wastewater Collection, Treatment and Disposal Systems: Includes water reuse.
Rule 13: Approvals and Permits for a Water Reuse Project
Rule 100:Utah State Project Priority System for the Utah Wastewater Project Assistance Program
South Carolina’s Plumbing Code, Chapter 13 Non-Potable Water Systems specifies a set of rules guiding the use of local water recycling systems. The code details a set of requirements and parameters for non-potable reuse.
The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management has developed technical guidelines for water reuse projects. The document includes technical standards for water reuse for irrigation and cooling purposes.
Oregon began supporting beneficial reuse in 1990, when a state regulatory framework for water reuse was established. Oregon’s Water Resources Department and Department of Environmental Quality have promulgated rules to govern water reuse and reclamation methods, procedures, restrictions, treatment, and monitoring.
Recycled Water Use Rules (Oregon Administrative Rules 340-055-0005): Recycled Water Use Rules lays out methods, procedures, restrictions, treatment, and monitoring requirements for the beneficial use of reclaimed water. Reclaimed water or recycled water is defined as treated effluent from a municipal wastewater treatment system.
Oklahoma
In 2012, Oklahoma’s Department of Environmental Quality promulgated water reuse regulations to govern groundwater recharge and other applications of water recycling. Current water reuse regulations include indirect potable reuse for surface water augmentation, operation and maintenance of water reuse systems, and treatment and construction standards.
Regulations and Policy
Water Reuse Implementation:DEQ guide to water reuse implementation following permitting and regulation requirements.
Ohio Administrative code, effective in 2015, provides guidelines for graywater recycling systems and sets their scope. The state does not currently regulate water recycling.
In the State of New York, the Department of Environmental Conservation regulates water reuse programs operated by wastewater treatment plants through State Pollutant Discharge Elimination System permits on a case-by-case basis. The New York State Department of State regulates graywater reuse within buildings through the state’s plumbing code, enforced by local building inspectors. In the City of New York, the Department of Environmental Protection operates a water conservation and reuse grants program to encourage commercial, industrial, and multi-family residential property owners to implement onsite water reuse systems.
The North Dakota Water Commission defines the terms of permitting for reusing wastewater. They have an update reported that explains the current scope of reuse in the state is for irrigation and non-potable purposes.
The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP), Division of Water Quality promotes beneficial water reuse from domestic and industrial wastewater dischargers via the NJDPES permitting program. Reclaimed water can be used for non-potable applications in place of potable water or as a supplement to potable water. Potential applications include irrigation of crops, parks, and golf courses; dust control; fire fighting; and toilet flushing. The Bureau of Surface Water and Pretreatment Permitting program has issued over 125 water reuse permits.
Policies
NJDEP Technical Manual: Reclaimed Water for Beneficial Use: This manual includes design, operation, and maintenance criteria for wastewater systems discharging reclaimed water for beneficial reuse and provides criteria for users of reclaimed water.
NJDEP Reclaimed Water Program: NJDEP provides guidance for project funding and implementation, as well as statewide reuse data.
New Mexico
In 2007, New Mexico updated its Guidance for Aboveground Use of Reclaimed Domestic Wastewater, which includes design specifications and treatment standards for a range of uses of recycled water. The state also intends to develop regulations related to the treatment and reuse of produced water, as directed by the Produced Water Act in 2019.
Water Project Finance Section; Implementation of state water plan (New Mexico Statutes §72-4A-9):New Mexico Statutes’ Water Project Finance Section has developed the Project Fund Act. This law provides low cost loans for projects related to water conservation and recycling, flood prevention, endangered species, water storage and delivery, and watershed restoration and management. This is relevant to aquifer recharge water reuse.
Water Conservation Plans; municipalities, counties and water suppliers. (New Mexico Statutes §72-14-3.2):New Mexico Statutes defines that “Covered entities” (i.e. water providers of at least five hundred acre-feet annually to municipal users) must submit a water conservation plan to the state engineer in order to be eligible for financial assistance from the Water Trust Board or the New Mexico Finance Authority. This document pertains to Ecological Restoration.
State Water Plan Authorization (New Mexico Statutes §72-14-3.1): New Mexico Statutes defines that the interstate stream commission, the office of the state engineer, and water trust board are tasked with creating and implementing a comprehensive state water plan, including elements such as: water conservation, water reuse, land use considerations, cooperation with local governments, drought management, and several other topics. This pertains to non-potable water reuse.
New Hampshire
The New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services (NHDES) developed a guidance document to describe how certain uses of reclaimed water from wastewater treatment plants are regulated in New Hampshire. The document provides guidance for the use of reclaimed water to recharge aquifers, irrigate crops and/or turf at golf courses, and snowmaking.
Water in the State of Hawaii is recycled for a range of non-potable applications. In 2016, the Hawaii Department of Health revised its guidelines for water reuse, which include technical requirements and application processes for various qualities of recycled water, requirements to construct or modify a wastewater reclamation facility, and best practices for reuse of graywater.
Regulations and Policies
Reuse Guidelines- Volume 1: Recycled Water Facilities:Volume 1 addresses technical requirements that must be met for the various qualities of recycled water as well as requirements to construct or modify a wastewater reclamation facility (WWRF).
Reuse Guidelines- Volume 2:Recycled Water Projects: Volume 2 covers the application process to use recycled water for purposes such as irrigation, dust control, cleaning, and fire-fighting and establishes best management practices that apply to the end user.
Guidelines for the Reuse of Graywater: These guidelines detail the acceptable uses of graywater, including discharge from showers, bathtubs, hand-washing lavatories, and washing machines, as well as considerations for design and system maintenance.
Montana Department of Environmental Quality (MDEQ) regulates the reuse of graywater and wastewater for non-potable functions such as irrigation and toilet flushing. An MDEQ circular from 2018 sets forth required treatment and water quality requirements for the various classes of reclaimed wastewater, describes the class of reclaimed wastewater required for each allowable use. The circular also outlines requirements to ensure an adequate demonstration of public health and environmental protection.
Rule 17.36.319, Gray Water Reuse: Chapter 36 details permitting for gray water systems and onsite subsurface wastewater treatment.
Minnesota
Water reuse is happening across Minnesota, but there is no comprehensive statewide guidance or policy on water reuse. An interagency workgroup formed in 2015 in response to interest in water reuse, a legislative directive and funding support. State agencies, Metropolitan Council, the University of Minnesota and stakeholders in the water reuse community worked together to develop a report that serves as a foundation for advancing safe and sustainable reuse in Minnesota. The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency provides treatment design and storage requirements for permitting of water reuse projects.
Policies and Resources
Minnesota Department of Health, Water Reuse: The Department of Health details water reuse in Minnesota including recommendations of a workgroup formed to advance water reuse in the state.
Minnesota Statutes, Chapter 115: Land use or spray irrigation of reclaimed water is permitted under Chapter 115 of the Minnesota Water Pollution Control; Sanitary Districts.
Massachusetts
Massachusetts Department of the Environment provides detailed standards for reuse in reclaimed water projects. Reclaimed water is used in landscaping, irrigation, and toilet flushing. In 2009, the state DEP established a Reclaimed Water Permit program that enabled large scale non-potable reuse. The state has since approved nearly a dozen large scale projects such as Gillette Stadium and the Wrentham Village Premium Outlets.
Maryland’s Ground Water Quality Standards include rules applicable to water recycling. Part A covers required approval of discharges. Part B classifies three types of groundwater aquifers based on transmissivity, permeability and total dissolved solids quality. The intent is to distinguish high quality aquifers and ensure their protection. Part C defines three categories of effluent water quality relative to the three types of groundwater aquifers. Part D provides guidelines for discharges to ground waters, and incorporates the Maryland Department of Environment’s “Guidelines for Land Application/Reuse of Treated Municipal Wastewaters” MDE-WMA-001-04/10, by reference.
The Louisiana Reclaimed Water Law (Title 30, Chapter 17, Section 2391 et seq.) declares that the use of potable water for non-potable uses, including but not limited to cemeteries, golf courses, parks, highway landscaped areas, and industrial uses, is a waste of “our most precious natural resource.” The law requires the use of reclaimed waters if a source exists. The law may encourage facilities to reuse or reclaim wastewater thereby eliminating discharges to waters of the state.
In 2018, Iowa established regulations to govern the reuse of treated effluent for golf course irrigation. Other types of landscape and agricultural irrigation seem to be permitted on a project-by-project basis.
Idaho has been supporting reuse since 1988, and state Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) data indicate that over 4 billion gallons of water are reused every year. Idaho has both reuse regulations and guidelines that include treatment and beneficial reuse of municipal and industrial wastewater. Water reuse by different types of land application facilities is allowed by state regulations. In 1988, Idaho’s Wastewater Land Application permitting rules were promulgated and guidance was developed. Idaho has a public advisory working group that meets periodically to advise guidance development and review existing and future reuse guidance. In 2011 reuse regulations were updated, and the name of the rules changed to Recycled Water Rules (IDAPA 58.01.17).
Regulations and Policies
Recycled Water Rules (Idaho Administrative Code 58.01.17): This rule applies to municipal dischargers, industrial dischargers, facilitates, organizations, and individuals seeking a land application or recycled water permit. The rule provides procedures and requirements for obtaining a “reuse permit.”
Reuse Permitting (Idaho Department of Environmental Quality): Two types of reuse permits are issued—industrial and municipal. Industrial permits regulate reuse from operations such as food processing facilities. Municipal permits regulate reuse containing treated effluent.
Delaware
Recycled water has been used for irrigation in Delaware for decades. The Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control administers state regulations and permitting for the distribution of treated wastewater for irrigation.
Regulation
Spray Irrigation Systems: Spray irrigation of reclaimed water is permitted through the Large Systems Branch and can be used for agricultural fields, golf course, forests, parks, roadway medians, and cemeteries.
Alabama
Alabama has a history of water reuse citing back to 1975 with reclaimed water being reused primarily for irrigation. The state’s rules allow for Class A and Class B water, with different reuse applications applying to each. These regulations also explain how to apply for permits for reuse. Alabama’s Department of Environmental Management oversees the state’s regulation of water reuse.
Regulations
Reclaimed Water Reuse Program, Chapter 335-6-20: These regulations establish the procedures and requirements for pollution source permits for reclaimed water reuse facilities. Reclaimed water is defined as wastewater that has received treatment meeting the specific criteria and can be reused for beneficial irrigation of areas such as golf courses, residential and commercial landscaping, parks, athletic fields, roadway medians and landscape impoundments.
Nevada
In Nevada, the Division of Environmental Protection has promulgated rules governing water recycling for both potable and non-potable uses. Nevada DEP notes that reclaimed water can be treated to meet disinfection and water quality standards for a range of applications. There are six categories of reclaimed water in the state, based upon water quality. These include indirect potable reuse, various forms of irrigation, firefighting, and cooling, among other applications.
Regulation
Chapter 445 – Water Controls: These regulations define the uses of reclaimed water and determine water quality standards for different allowed uses.
Texas
Texas has the third highest reclaimed water flows in the country behind California and Florida. Water reuse goals are published under the State Water Plan, which is updated every five years to provide a new 50 year projection. Texas estimates that water reuse will account for 15 percent of the water supply in the coming decades. The first guidelines for water reuse were passed in 1997 and updated in 2009. There are two categories of non-potable reclaimed water (Type I and Type II) based on whether the water is appropriate for public contact or not. The Texas Administrative Code also includes regulations for the use of graywater and some alternative sources in onsite or decentralized reuse systems. There are no specific water quality standards for potable reuse and therefore these projects are approved on a case by case basis.
Policies and Regulations
Texas Water Development Board, Water Reuse:The Texas Water Development Board has information on recent research projects and resource related to both potable and non-potable reuse.
30 Texas Administrative Code Chapter 321, Subchapter P: This Chapter of Texas Administrative Code provides authorization procedures, general design criteria, and operational requirements for reclaimed water production facilities.
§5.102:This Chapter of the Texas Administrative Code defines the Texas Water Development Board (TWDB) and the rules that guide them. TWDB policy pertains to both potable and non-potable reuse.
§26.011: This Chapter of Texas Administrative Code defines the administrative provisions of the Texas Water Development Board in regards to Water Quality Control.
New Mexico Energy, Minerals, and Natural Resources Department has developed regulations relevant to the reuse of water disposed from Oil and Natural Gas projects. Groundwater recharge is encompassed by these regulations.
New Mexico Statutes’ Water Project Finance Section has developed the Project Fund Act. This law provides low cost loans for projects related to water conservation and recycling, flood prevention, endangered species, water storage and delivery, and watershed restoration and management. This is relevant to aquifer recharge water reuse.
New Mexico Statutes defines that “Covered entities” (i.e. water providers of at least five hundred acre-feet annually to municipal users) must submit a water conservation plan to the state engineer in order to be eligible for financial assistance from the Water Trust Board or the New Mexico Finance Authority. This document pertains to Ecological Restoration.
New Mexico Statutes defines that the interstate stream commission, the office of the state engineer, and water trust board are tasked with creating and implementing a comprehensive state water plan, including elements such as: water conservation, water reuse, land use considerations, cooperation with local governments, drought management, and several other topics. This pertains to non potable water reuse.
