Wastewater Reuse—A Supplemental Supply

Historically, Los Angeles County has learned to quench its thirst from many sources. Completion of the California Water Project in 1971-72 and the second barrel of the Owen River Aqueduct in 1972 will ensure adequate supplies until about 1990. These high quality imported waters will also enhance the quality of treated wastewater for subsequent reuse. Undoubtedly, much of this better quality water will be used directly for irrigation or percolation to the underground. New processes resulting from a rapidly developing technology can be readily integrated into the water renovation plants not being operated or under construction by the Sanitation Districts as new reuse applications arise. Ultimately, demineralization of wastewater may be practical on a large scale, since processes now under development appear competitive with alternative sources of supply. While a significant quantity of wastewater is suitable for treatment and reuse, it should be considered in its proper role—as a supplemental supply.