AWWA REUSE52108

As the population grows, the demand for water is increasing and stressing potable water systems. As this demand for potable water increases, use of reclaimed water is becoming more and more important as an alternative source of water for irrigation. Water reuse is the wave of the future in Las Vegas Valley, Nevada, water management. In order to meet the water demand needs for major water users, the Clark County Sanitation District and the Las Vegas Valley Water District have created a water reclamation and reuse project in southwest Las Vegas to provide recycled water to golf courses, schools and parks. One of the major concerns with using reclaimed water for the golf courses is water quality. Factors which affect the reclaimed water quality include salt concentrations, dissolved elements, chlorides, and pH. The total dissolved solids (TDS) concentration of the reclaimed water is approximately 1200-1400 mg/L. Excessive concentrations of dissolved salts in the root zone hinders water uptake for landscape plants and turf, and plants may become water-stressed even though the soil is moist. In addition to water quality, the cost of recycled water is also an important aspect of the feasibility of this project. This paper discusses how the $22 million Water Reuse Facilities are optimized to make recycled water affordable, meet high water quality standards and remain attractive for large irrigators to use. The paper concludes with a discussion of financing issues, institutional complexities in the project development, public acceptance, regulatory requirements and benefits of water reuse. Includes table.