White House and Congress Make Progress in Securing New Funds for Businesses Devastated by COVID-19, including WateReuse Member Businesses
The White House and congressional leaders made progress last week in negotiating a fourth COVID-19 relief package that would include new funds for small business loans. In recent weeks, Congress enacted three pieces of legislation to provide aid to households, businesses, and local and state governments impacted by the coronavirus pandemic. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell’s (R-KY) attempt to secure a unanimous consent agreement in the Senate has been blocked 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 in order to enact a bill.
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.
The WateReuse Association has sent letters to congressional leaders urging that coronavirus stimulus packages include investments in water recycling infrastructure. As discussed below, WateReuse is also collecting a list of “shovel-ready” projects to demonstrate the role water reuse can play in supporting economic recovery and organizing member advocacy during a virtual Water Week, April 26-May 1.
Action Needed: Submit Your “Shovel-Ready” Water Recycling Projects for Stimulus Investment
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 of the role that shovel-ready water recycling projects can assist in our country’s economic recovery.
If your utility or business has 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).
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.
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.
Members of Congress Urge Moratorium on Water Utility Shut-offs and Federal Support for Water Utilities Amid Pandemic
Last week, Senator Jeff Merkley (D-OR) and Representative Peter Defazio (D-OR) spearheaded a letter from 115 Members of Congress to congressional leadership, calling for a nationwide moratorium on utility shut-offs, including water utilities. With unemployment claims continuing to rise, millions of Americans are expected to be unable to pay their bills for water services, electricity, and internet access. Importantly, the letter notes that many utilities have already voluntarily suspended shut offs.
The letter also urges federal support for utilities, but does not provide any details on how that support should take shape. According to a recent analysis by the American Water Works Association and the Association of Metropolitan Water Agencies, water utilities are facing up to a $14 billion shortfall in ratepayer revenue.
Bureau of Reclamation Awards $400,000 to WateReuse Members for Drought Planning
The U.S. Department of Interior’s Bureau of Reclamation has chosen four projects to share $710,771 to develop and update drought contingency plans, including incorporating water reuse as a water management strategy.
Valley Water will use their $200,000 to develop a drought response plan to improve water supply reliability during times of shortage in Santa Clara County in Northern California. The water district provides water and other services to businesses, industrial and agricultural users, and approximately two million residents across 15 cities in Santa Clara County, California.
The Western Municipal Water District will use their $200,000 to convene a local task force to develop a comprehensive drought contingency plan that considers impacts to local water supplies and infrastructure that will help Western customers during the next drought. They are located in western Riverside County in California and serve more than 880,000 people.
Both utilities are matching their grant with $200,000. Reclamation also announced awards for the Montana Department of Natural Resources and the Pechango Band of Luiseño Indians.
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
WateReuse Association members continue to
provide resources and services to help the nation recover from the coronavirus
pandemic, including engineering and technology firms.
Carollo: Mel Butcher of Carollo Engineers shared how design concepts may help civil engineers during the COVID-19 Pandemic with American Society of Civil Engineers Plot Points podcast. Read More.
Evoqua: Evoqua technologies helps company increase disinfection production tenfold during this pandemic. 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
California: UC Berkley Expert, Kara Nelson, Says Water Reuse Treatment Kills COVID-19
Kara Nelson, an expert in waterborne pathogens at UC Berkley, says that researchers have a high degree of confidence in the ability of existing water reuse treatment to handle the COVID-19 virus. In an interview with the Public Policy Institute of California, Dr. Nelson explained that coronaviruses have a different structure from other viruses in wastewater, which makes them even easier to kill. Although these treatment processes are based on science and a regulatory approach developed over decades, Nelson indicated that researchers would like to see studies to confirm this. Several studies have been launched across the nation. Read More
California: West County Wastewater and East Bay Municipal Utility District Announce Recycled Water Partnership
West County Wastewater and the East Bay Municipal Utility District (EBMUD) announced a recycled water partnership that will preserve valuable drinking water for the region. Under an existing agreement, West County Wastewater sends the majority of its treated secondary wastewater to EBMUD. The updated agreement significantly increases the amount of discharged wastewater that can be transferred to EBMUD, which distributes the recycled water to local businesses for industrial reuse, such as cooling towers and boilers. Read More.
California: Palmdale Regional Groundwater Recharge and Recovery Project Moves Forward
Although the Palmdale Water District offices are closed to public during the coronavirus pandemic, work continues on the Palmdale Regional Groundwater Recharge and Recovery Project. This effort will recharge local groundwater supplies with recycled water to fortify the community’s water resources. The District Board of Directors unanimously approved a contract last week for the first test well. Read More.
California: Stanford Researchers Track COVID-19 with Wastewater Surveillance
Stanford researchers are collecting wastewater across the Bay Area to understand how wastewater surveillance can help us better understand the prevalence of COVID-19 and potentially predict new flare-ups before they happen. In the absence of extensive testing or a vaccine, understanding where and to what extent cities have been impacted will be important. Wastewater surveillance allows researchers to identify COVID-19 in a sewer system based on the RNA present. Research labs are teaming with pandemic experts to validate and provide tools during this crisis in a timely fashion. Read More.
Colorado: Unique Mobile DPR Demonstration on Track for Symposium Debut
To foster public awareness and engagement for future implementation of direct potable reuse (DPR), Colorado Springs Utilities (Springs Utilities), the Colorado School of Mines (Mines), and Carollo Engineers, Inc. have joined forces to design, construct, and operate an innovative mobile demonstration. Unlike previous mobile DPR demonstrations, the system uses ozone and biologically active filtration instead of reverse osmosis (RO). The process is designed with the flexibility to incorporate additional unit processes.
With the collaborative design effort and engineering documents by Carollo complete, construction is underway by Mines faculty, staff, and students. The trailer-mounted system will first be stationed for operations at Springs Utilities’ J.D. Phillips Water Resource Recovery Facility through fall 2020. It will make its national debut in conjunction with the WateReuse Association 2020 Symposium. Symposium attendees are invited to tour the operating system in Colorado Springs. Public and stakeholder tours and purified water, beer, hard seltzer, and soda tastings are planned as part of Springs Utilities’ engagement efforts.
In late 2020, the trailer will be relocated to Mines to support potable reuse research and education efforts. The system will also be available for use in other Colorado communities considering DPR.
Colorado: Denver Water’s Lead Reduction Program Moves Forward During Pandemic
WateReuse Association member Denver Water remains committed to their public health initiatives, by shifting focus to tasks that can be accomplished safely during the stay-at-home order. The Lead Reduction Program, aimed at removing lead service lines, had just gotten underway in early March. Denver Water is focusing on pre-work that can be done safely, such as collecting consent forms and tackling service lines not currently in use, such as schools and daycares. Read More.
Florida: Potable Reuse Rulemaking Included in Omnibus Water Bill; Governor Expected to Sign
Potable reuse projects will be required to address contaminants of emerging concern and must meet or exceed federal and state drinking water quality standards and other applicable water quality standards. In addition, reclaimed water is deemed in Florida Statute, a water source for public water supply systems. The inclusion of potable reuse in the omnibus water bill is a great success for the Potable Reuse Commission as it allows its recommendations to be implemented and recognizes the importance of the Potable Reuse Commission’s report.
Due to COVID-19, Senate Bill 712 has not been presented to Governor DeSantis for action but we expect that it will be signed into law by him upon presentation.
WateReuse Members Support U.S.-Israel Team on $21.4M Center to Develop Water-Energy Efficient Technologies, including Reuse
The U.S. Department of Energy’s Office of International Affairs and Israeli’s Ministry of Energy have teamed to fund a multi-institutional effort called the Collaborative Water-Energy Research Center (CoWERC). This effort will develop technologies to solve global water challenges including desalination and purifying drinking water.
The research and technology development in energy-efficient enhanced water supply, water reuse and resource recovery, and energy-water systems will culminate in pilot projects at both U.S. and Israeli facilities. Read More.
Need to Illustrate the Value of Water Reuse Investment? Use Our Flyer and Infographic
Utilities must make a compelling case to ratepayers, policymakers, and other stakeholders that investment in water recycling is the right decision. Use our flyer and infographic to illustrate that Investment in water reuse builds communities that are modern, sustainable and stable—ready for families to flourish and businesses to grow. The infographic highlights examples of recycled water from coast to coast and documents the value they bring.
Conferences and Events
Webcast Series Provides Value Information and Resources on COVID-19
In response to questions and concerns surrounding COVID-19
and water recycling, the WateReuse Association has developed a series of
webcasts to provide members with the answers and resources they need. From risk
preparedness to stimulus funding and communicating about the safety of recycled
water, WateReuse has assembled experts across multiple disciplines to share the
latest information and analysis. The following webcasts are available and free
to members:
Are water recycling utilities well prepared to deal with the COVID-19 crisis and other potential future risks? The America’s Water Infrastructure Act (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 begin with an overview of AWIA requirements, RRAs, and the role of water reuse in those assessments followed by a focus on risk and risk perceptions in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. Register Now!
In the weeks since COVID-19 took hold in the United States, Congress has passed a number of relief packages that have included paid leave provisions, paycheck protection loans, emergency disaster loans, and tax deferrals, among other tools. In this webcast, leading experts from national business associations will break down how recent legislation, including the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act, can help WateReuse business members survive and recover from the disaster. Register Now!
Communities embrace water reuse as a proven method to ensure a safe, reliable, and locally controlled water supply, but in the age of COVID-19 new questions are being asked about public health and worker safety. Researchers at the forefront of this issue will join us for an informative update on what we know about recycled water and COVID-19. Experts in water reuse communications will follow with guidance on risk communication and messaging. This is an essential presentation for anyone that communicates about recycled water. Register Now!
After the membership meeting ends (around 6:15 pm), we will gather folks interested in reuse at Truck Yard Houston for a Reuse Happy Hour co-hosted with the WEAT Reuse Committee.
Truck Yard Houston is a 3-minute walk from the convention center at 2118 Lamar St. Houston, TX 77003.
If you have trouble finding us that evening, please call 832 619-9496.
Colorado’s Challenging Water Future: Where are we with Water Reuse?
Join us at the 2023 WateReuse Colorado Conference on May 2 2023! The conference will bring together water reuse professionals to share the latest research, innovation, and experiences to address the growing need for water recycling in Colorado and across the country. WRCO is pleased to conduct this event in collaboration with CU Boulder. Make plans to attend the conference for learning, networking, and engaging in discussions with the experts of reuse community, while enjoying the view of beautiful Boulder Flatirons!
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.
