State of Irrigated Agricultural Water Reuse – Impediments and Incentives
RFP Open Date: September 30, 2015
RFP Close Date: November 4, 2015
Project: 15-08
Type: White Paper
Program: Principal
Budget: $200,000 (Cash: $150,000; Matching Funds: $50,000)
Background
Irrigated agriculture is one of the major sectors that relies on fresh water from both ground and surface supplies. There is substantial use of recycled water across the United States, however there is a high potential for increased water reuse. To increase the use of recycled water, incentives, funding, regulatory actions, and new policies may be used to promote recycled water use. This may also decrease reliance on scarce or over-drafted ground and surface water supplies. The purpose of this study is to gather information related to reuse of recycled water for agricultural irrigation purposes, identify impediments and incentives that may impact it, as well as explore opportunities related to onsite reuse in regards to irrigated agriculture. The findings from this research will provide valuable guidance to water suppliers, regulators, and the agricultural community regarding the potential for irrigated agricultural uses of recycled water. Portions of the study will investigate successful policies and practices across the United States and in other countries.
Objectives
- Identify examples of existing irrigated agricultural uses of recycled water in the United States and other countries.
- Identify potential for irrigated agricultural uses of recycled water, including, but not limited to, hydroponics and aquaculture.
- Identify how to address and overcome impediments and provide incentives to achieve greater recycled water use for agriculture.