AWWA REUSE52090

In 1980, when the population of Gilbert, Arizona was 5,717, the Arizona Groundwater Code set the stage for municipalities to develop integrated resource plans to demonstrate the ability to provide water to their growing populations. The Code strictly limited groundwater withdrawals and strongly encouraged the use of renewable water supplies. Some municipalities responded early to the need to survey available water resources and creatively secure them for future generations. One such municipality was the Town of Gilbert. One component of the Town's long-term assured water supply is the direct reuse and groundwater recharge of effluent. Early in its development, Town leaders made the commitment to reuse or store 100 percent of its effluent for beneficial use. Since then, the community has embraced its use as a contributing factor to its quality of life. This acceptance of the practice of effluent reuse has enabled the community to develop innovative ways to combine resource development with desired amenities. This paper describes Gilbert's new groundwater recharge facility that has been constructed to continue to meet the community's water resource goals. Though its primary objective is to recharge four million gallons per day (mgd) of tertiary treated reclaimed water and Colorado River water, the Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch is strategically located immediately behind the new regional library and serves as a passive recreation park. The library is designed to provide an excellent view of a five-acre urban lake and seven groundwater recharge basins situated on 120 acres. The Riparian Preserve boasts a non-conventional play area, picnic areas, an outdoor classroom,over four miles of walking paths, two research/camping peninsulas, and many educational and viewing areas. Includes 9 references.