An economically and environmentally sound approach to the management of limited water resources in South Florida. Reclaimed water is wastewater which has received advanced treatment and is reused for non-potable uses such as industrial processing, commercial and private landscape irrigation or agricultural uses. State water policies adopted in Florida recognize water reuse as an integral part of comprehensive water management program. Water reclamation offers an alternate water source which does not tax the diminishing fresh water supply and is a valuable alternative for multiple applications not requiring drinking quality water.
Reclaimed water can serve almost any non-potable market normally serviced by freshwater supply.
Industrial facilities, urban landscapes such as golf courses and parks, and residential irrigation are some potential users of reclaimed water. Yes, reclaimed water is safe. In order to ensure the safeguarding of public health, operation of reclaimed water programs must comply with strict regulatory requirements developed and enforced by the Florida Department of Environmental Regulation and Broward County's Department of Natural Resource Protection. Substitution of reclaimed water for non-potable purposes adds a new resource into a finite water supply. Water reuse in South Florida curtails withdrawals from the Biscayne Aquifer, the region's sole water supply, and provides a recharge mechanism.