Two cooperatively funded projects between the Southwest Florida Water Management District and the WateReuse Foundation will help water managers gain a better understanding of different reclaimed water treatment methods.
Soil Aquifer Treatment Study
The goal of the soil aquifer treatment and membrane treatment study is to determine how effective the soils and the aquifer treat or remove undesirable compounds in reclaimed water. Soil aquifer treatment occurs during planned and unplanned groundwater recharge.
The findings of this study are expected to be used to determine which options are most effective at maximizing reclaimed water flows to restore natural systems. This understanding is increasingly important as the District continues to find innovative ways to use reclaimed water as an alternative non-potable supply and for restoring natural systems.
This study is expected to cost $200,000 with funding being divided among the District, the WateReuse Foundation and other sources. The District’s share is up to $66,667.
The soil aquifer treatment and membrane treatment study is expected to be complete by December 2009.
Wetland Treatment Study
The goal of the reclaimed water wetland treatment study is to develop the scientific information necessary to understand the ability of wetlands to treat or remove undesirable compounds in reclaimed water.
The project will identify levels of nutrients, pathogens, total dissolved solids, and microconstituents that are removed by wetland treatment. This understanding is increasingly important as the District continues to find innovative ways to use reclaimed water for restoring natural systems.
This study is expected to cost $200,000 with funding being divided among the District, the WateReuse Foundation and other sources. The District’s share is up to $66,667.
The wetlands treatment study is expected to be complete by December 2010.
The data, conclusions and recommendations produced by the studies will assist in forming a scientific basis for the sound and responsible development of future District projects to increase reclaimed water utilization consistent with District goals for water quality, natural systems restoration and water supply.
The WateReuse Association, and its research arm the WateReuse Foundation, is a non-profit organization whose mission is to advance the beneficial and efficient use of water resources through education, sound science and technology using reclamation, recycling, reuse and desalination for the benefit of members, the public and the environment.