AWWA SOURCES55655

This paper discusses how the evolution of water reuse criteria began in California, where regulations were first adopted in 1918. As reclaimed water began to be used on an extensive scale for a multitude of applications, criteria had to be continually revised to take into account associated health concerns, advances in treatment and analytical technology, and other new information from research and demonstration studies. The philosophy behind California's regulations and the rationale supporting decisions on various requirements included in the criteria are indicative of a conservative approach taken to assure health protection. Regulatory agencies in several states, such as Florida, that have adopted comprehensive criteria, have taken a similar approach. Guidelines and regulations have been developed by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and World Health Organization to assist in the implementation of water reuse projects. Includes 30 references, tables.