Reclaimed water is highly treated wastewater that's safe for recycling. You pay the price when streams, rivers, lakes, and groundwater resources are tapped to provide drinking water in support of municipal, industrial, or agricultural use. This is because you are paying for a level of water purification needed only for drinking. Construction of new water treatment facilities can be deferred A reliable new source of water is established Ratepayers can save water and eventually money by using reclaimed water.
Agricultural irrigation is the most common way to use reclaimed water.
Bumper crops ranging from alfalfa to zucchini have been grown safely using this important water source. Because reclaimed water contains key plant nutrients such as nitrogen and phosphorus, its use can reduce both water and fertilizer costs. Reclaimed water is also used around the world to irrigate areas including residential lawns, golf courses, freeway medians, school grounds, commercial and industrial parks, cemeteries, and athletic fields. Reclaimed water undergoes a high level of treatment to remove bacteria and viruses from the wastewater. Extensive testing is performed to assure water quality standards are met.