
Washington Update

Senate Committee Advances Funding for Water Recycling
Department of Energy Selects National Alliance for Water Innovation to Lead Energy-Water Desalination Hub
Congressional Briefing Presents the Science of PFAS
The Water Research Foundation (WRF) organized an expert panel for a September 26 Congressional briefing on the science of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). New research results are improving understanding of how best to address potential risks posed from exposure to this diverse class of compounds. WRF brought together the foremost experts in the science of PFAS to share recent scientific discoveries with members to allow the nation to more effectively protect human health and the environment. Speakers included Peter Grevatt, CEO of The Water Research Foundation; Carla A. Ng, Assistant Professor at the University of Pittsburgh; and Charles B. Bott, Director of Water Technology and Research at Hampton Roads Sanitation District. A recording of the event is available for viewing.
State Updates and Member Profiles
California: WateReuse CA Presents WateReuse Action Plan to State Board
WateReuse California Vice President Paul Sciuto, General Manager of Monterey One Water, presented the California WateReuse Action Plan at the September 23 Drought Preparation and Response Listening Session held by the California State Water Board. The action plan is a comprehensive set of proposed actions that will more than double the use of water recycling in California and help prepare the state for the impacts of climate change. The plan identifies four strategic areas for action: research, regulations, regional planning and funding and includes 20 specific recommendations. Sciuto discussed the importance of continuing to advance regulations that lead to responsible use of recycled water and the need for increased funding.
Florida: Officials look to Water Reuse to Meet Needs of Expanding Population
Faced with skyrocketing population, Florida officials from the state, water management districts, and local utilities are promoting water reuse to ease pressure on water supplies. Florida’s population is increasing by more than 900 people daily. Water management districts have identified reclaimed water projects as the number one source of water to meet future demands. Of the wastewater generated in Florida in 2017, 44 to 48% was reused. The majority was used to irrigate golf courses and lawns and for other public uses. Read More.
Minnesota: Stormwater Reuse in Waconia Controls Flooding, Conserves Water
WateReuse Association member the City of Waconia is operating four reuse systems across the city that capture and reuse stormwater runoff. The program provides flood control, improves water quality in Lake Waconia, and helps to recharge groundwater. The captured stormwater is used to irrigate residential developments, parks and ballfields, businesses, and schools. In the first eight months of 2019, the community reduced the amount of potable water used for irrigation by 4.3 million gallons. Read More.
Texas: El Paso Highlights Partnership with Bureau of Reclamation
El Paso Water President and CEO John Balliew recently shared a communication with ratepayers highlighting its partnership with the Bureau of Reclamation to develop water recycling and desalination projects. The Bureau of Reclamation offers a variety of competitive grant funding programs – from water recycling and reuse projects to drought response and desalination construction. El Paso’s partnership with Reclamation has included a $1.1 million Title XVI grant to expand its non-potable reuse program, a $3.5 million Title XVI grant for a new advanced water purification facility, and a $2 million WaterSmart grant to build a desalination plant. Read More.
WateReuse Customer Communications Tools and Resources
Engaging the Public Health Community on Water Reuse? Check out Our Online Resources
Although water reuse is a proven, science-based process that has been used safely in communities around the world for decades, the public is often skeptical when the concept is first introduced into a community. To build acceptance among medical and health professionals, WateReuse has launched the Medical Community Initiative and begun developing resources to support members in engaging with the public health community. Visit our website for videos, articles, and presentations that support engagement with medical professionals. New tools are being developed so check back for updates.
Conferences and Events
WateReuse Staff Discuss Water Reuse during WEFTEC, Climate Panel
WateReuse Association Executive Director Patricia Sinicropi participated in a water reuse workshop on Sunday, September 23 during WEFTEC 2019, the Water Environment Federation’s annual conference. Sinicropi presented innovative examples of both potable and non-potable recycling projects and made the case that both applications are an important part of the nation’s future. Sinciropi was joined at WEFTEC by Director of Strategic Operations, Carrie Capuco, who presented on WateReuse’s Public Health and Medical Community Initiative. Sinicropi also participated in a Climate Week panel on Friday, September 27 in New York City. The panel focused on the pioneering decentralized water reuse systems at Battery Park City.
Call for Abstracts: 2020 WateReuse California Annual Conference
The California Section of the WateReuse Association is accepting abstracts for presentations at the 2020 WateReuse California Annual Conference to be held March 15-17, 2020 at the Hyatt Regency, San Francisco, California. The conference is designed for individuals, organizations, and agencies that are associated with or interested in the design, management, operation, and use of water recycling facilities and projects in California. Abstracts are due October 18. Learn More.
Upcoming Events
More info TBD
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.
For more information contact José Ramirez
TBD; details forthcoming
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!
Please contact Jennifer West for details