California’s State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB) unanimously voted to adopt new regulations allowing for the implementation of direct potable water reuse (DPR). The new regulations, years in the making, prioritize the protection of public health and safety, while providing a vital new source for California’s water portfolio.
Differing from indirect potable reuse (IPR) planned for the Pure Water Project Las Virgenes – Triunfo, which uses multiple phases of proven advanced water treatment technology to further purify recycled water to above drinking water standards before conveying it to a natural “environmental buffer” like a reservoir, DPR sends the water directly to an existing drinking water delivery system. This approach provides more flexibility where it is not feasible to use an environmental buffer.
The triple advanced treatment of recycled water utilizes ultrafiltration, reverse osmosis, and ultraviolet light/advanced oxidation to remove pathogens, viruses, bacteria, and constituents of emerging concern like PFAS and pharmaceuticals. These additional proven technologies are used in both IPR and DPR. However, since DPR is directly introduced into water delivery systems, the treatment is significantly more stringent and requires additional processes like ozonation and biologically active filtration.
“While we are not proposing direct potable reuse for our region at this time, approval of these new regulations is pivotal to advancing water recycling throughout all of California,” said David Pedersen, general manager of Las Virgenes Municipal Water District, administering agent for the Las Virgenes – Triunfo Joint Powers Authority, and president of WateReuse California. “This kind of innovation and forward thinking is critical to ensure a sustainable water future for everyone.”
During a more than decade-long process, the State investigated the feasibility of developing uniform water recycling criteria for DPR, as mandated by SB 918 and SB 322. Part of the process included convening a 12-member panel of experts to review the DPR criteria and ensure it adheres to the highest public health standards. A report was presented to the SWRCB prior to adoption of the regulations confirming that the new rules were adequately protective of public health.
The JPA offers tours of the Pure Water Demonstration Facility upon request, which includes a tasting at the conclusion of the tour. Visit www.ourpureh2o.com to learn more about the Pure Water Project Las Virgenes – Triunfo.
