Research and Development Office

Direct Reuse of Treated Sewage for Augmenting Potable Water Supplies

Project ID: 1443
Principal Investigator: Mike Landis
Research Topic: Desalination and Water Treatment
Funded Fiscal Years: 2004
Keywords: None

Research Question

This research will evaluate various treatment processes required for the effective removal of contaminants from waste water treatment plant effluent for direct diversion into surface water treatment plants in the El Paso, Texas, area. These contaminants include pharmaceutically active compounds, personal care products, and endocrine disruptors in addition to the listed primary Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) contaminants.

Need and Benefit

Water conservation is the easiest method of extending limited water supplies. The use of treated sewage effluent as a replacement for potable water on golf courses and parks is a logical step in the water conservation process. Ultimately, sewage effluent will become a source of drinking water for cities across the Western United States as demand for water increases. Treating sewage effluent to meet SDWA requirements to expand our water supply is a management practice that has yet to be implemented. Current methods of purification and disinfection now make this idea of directly reusing sewage a reality. The closure of the gap between the Clean Water Act and SDWA requirements for our Nation's surface waters will be pioneered by projects such as this.

Contributing Partners

Contact the Principal Investigator for information about partners.

Research Products

Please contact research@usbr.gov about research products related to this project.

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