As climate patterns in the Southwest region of the United States continue to shift towards hotter and drier seasons, the availability of water in Arizona is facing increasing challenges. The Colorado River, which supplies about 36% of Arizona’s water, has been directly impacted by these changing patterns, with less snowpack and runoff to sustain its flow. This problem has forced Arizona to rethink its water usage and explore new methods to ensure a sustainable water supply for the future.
While Arizona has the second-largest allocation of Colorado River water, it holds the lowest priority when it comes to receiving that water. This situation makes the state vulnerable to any further cuts in water allocations. Although groundwater can temporarily alleviate shortages, it requires careful management, as many rural areas are already experiencing significant declines in their aquifer water levels. However, despite these challenges, Arizona has successfully managed its water resources by implementing conservation efforts and active groundwater management. Remarkably, Arizona has reduced its overall water usage since the 1950s, even as the state’s population has grown.
The Need for New Water Solutions
To address Arizona’s long-term water security, the state must continue exploring every possible tool available. One such solution is Advanced Water Purification (AWP), a process that holds the promise of providing a reliable and clean source of drinking water for Arizona’s residents and businesses.
Recently, the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) announced that it could soon approve new regulations that will pave the way for implementing AWP. This new initiative will create a voluntary program that allows water agencies across Arizona to develop local water supplies and reduce dependence on imported water from the Colorado River and local groundwater sources.
Scottsdale is one of the frontrunners in this effort, having operated an AWP demonstration facility since 1998. The city was also the first to receive a permit in the state to use recycled water for consumption as drinking water. Phoenix is currently working on its own full-scale AWP facility as part of the rehabilitation of its Cave Creek Water Reclamation Plant. Tucson is also in the planning stages of a similar program.
What is Advanced Water Purification?
AWP uses a high-tech, multi-barrier filtration system to purify recycled water to levels that meet or exceed state and federal drinking water standards. The process starts with wastewater that is already clean enough to be used in environmental applications such as irrigation. This water is then sent through high-pressure filtration systems that remove contaminants and ensure that the water is safe for human consumption.
Once the water has been purified, it undergoes rigorous monitoring and testing before being added to the community’s water supply. This ensures that the water is not only safe to drink but also meets the highest health and safety standards.
Arizona’s Efforts Align with National Trends
Arizona is not alone in its pursuit of AWP. Several communities across the United States have implemented similar systems to address water shortages. For example, El Paso, Texas, is currently constructing the Pure Water Center, which will eventually produce 10 million gallons of purified water per day. In Colorado, cities like Aurora have been successfully operating purified water systems for over a decade, and Castle Rock plans to have a similar facility that will meet all of its water needs by 2065.
In California, Los Angeles is building a water recycling facility in the San Fernando Valley that will supply drinking water for about 250,000 residents. In Florida, Clay County has already established a demonstration facility to showcase the technology and its potential benefits.
Arizona’s Long History of Water Recycling
Arizona has a long history of water reuse, dating back to 1926 when the state constructed its first wastewater treatment plant at Grand Canyon Village specifically for reuse. Since then, Arizona has become a leader in reusing wastewater for a variety of purposes, including cooling the country’s largest nuclear power plant, replenishing aquifers, maintaining golf courses, and even supplying water for the world’s largest fountain.
The state’s experience with water reuse, combined with decades of research, monitoring, and the development of advanced treatment technologies, has positioned Arizona to successfully implement AWP. These efforts have been further supported by specialized training and certification programs for water facility operators.
A Promising Future for Arizona’s Water Security
The new rules for Advanced Water Purification in Arizona are a significant step toward securing a reliable and sustainable water future for the state. These regulations not only aim to protect public health and the environment but also create new opportunities for enhancing water supply resilience.
As Arizona moves forward with these initiatives, the state is poised to become a model for others facing similar water challenges. The successful implementation of AWP could not only help Arizona meet its current water needs but also ensure that the state’s water resources are managed responsibly for generations to come.
Erin Young is the president of WaterReuse Arizona, a trade association focused on water recycling. Rob McCandless is a past president of the association.
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