Recycled Water

The logical result from collecting wastewater is to treat it to a quality which has value as a revenue producer to help offset treatment costs. That process not only conserves limited local fresh water and makes managed water resources more efficient, but makes water management more economical.

• New: Conditions, applications, and ordinances for recycled water.

Eastern Municipal Water District's Recycled Water Program

EMWD produces two grades of recycled water: secondary and tertiary.

Secondary treatment employs biological oxidation to remove nearly all suspended solids and other impurities. This water can be used on pastures for feed, fiber and seed crops not eaten directly by humans.

During the late 1980's tertiary treatment became the highest level of treatment, effectively removing bacteria, viruses and virtually all suspended solids. At this level, recycled water can be used for almost any purpose in California except direct consumption.

Because of EMWD's long history with wastewater, public acceptance of its value is justifiably high. Best estimates indicate that EMWD could sell twice as much recycled water as it currently is able to produce. Recycled water currently irrigates 22,350 acres.

In one noteworthy benefit from a joint program with the US Bureau of Reclamation, Eastern's multipurpose, constructed wetlands in San Jacinto has evolved as a world-renowned wastewater treatment research center, while creating beneficial wildlife habitat.

Recent achievements

Customers reaped the benefits from several achievements during 1998-99, which helped to eliminate the need for water or sewer rate hikes for one more year. Two of those factors were effective cost controls and fresh water sales 12% higher than the previous year.

Although sales volatility is most often predicated on seasonal temperatures and precipitation, the trend in water sales over the longer term is upward.

Ordinances, Applications, and Information...

Ordinances that cover the use of recycled water:

• Ordinance 68.2

Forms and applications for using recycled water

• Conditions for using recycled water in the landscape
• Developers Checklist for using recycled water
• Application to use recycled water in landscape (updated 03/06)
• Don't Drink the Water Symbol

To find out more information about using recycled water for your business, call:
(951) 928-3777 during normal business hours to speak with an EMWD representative.