Recycled Water Source
The City uses recycled water for irrigation of sites with large amounts of high water using plants, such as turfgrass. Every gallon of recycled water used for irrigation saves a gallon of potable water that can be used in homes and businesses. At El Estero Water Resource Center, treated wastewater (secondary effluent) is sent through filters to produce tertiary treated recycled water. The recycled water system is entirely separate from the drinking water system, typically using purple colored pipes, meter boxes, and sprinklers, and posted signage at all sites. Recycled water is mainly used for irrigating landscaping at parks, schools, the zoo, golf courses, and homeowners associations. Additionally, some of the recycled water is used for toilet flushing and dust control. The recycled water project was completed in 1991; the City continues to expand the use of recycled water at existing sites, as well as identifying new sites. For more information, visit our Recycled Water Homepage.
Annual Capacity
The system in its current configuration has the capacity to treat and deliver 1,400 acre feet per year; current demand is approximately 800 AFY, plus about 200 AFY of process water used at EEWTP.
Operating Criteria
Recycled water is a non-variable supply in that it can only be supplied to those customers that are connected to the recycled water system.