What is Recycled Water?  Treated wastewater (secondary effluent) is sent through filters to produce recycled water. The filtration process removes very fine particulate matter and is called tertiary treatment. Recycled water is used mainly for irrigation of landscaping at parks, schools, the zoo, golf courses, homeowners associations, and retirement homes. Additionally some of the recycled water is used for toilet flushing in public restrooms at sites irrigated with recycled water. Click the button to see the system map.
History of Recycled Water Project After several dry years in the late 1970’s, and continued population growth in the City, analysis of the City’s water supply showed that additional water sources were needed. Recycled water was identified as a potential substitute for potable water for irrigation and other uses. In 1980, a study was conducted to determine the feasibility of using recycled water in Santa Barbara. The results of the study showed that recycled water for irrigation purposes was economically, technically, and environmentally feasible. Funding for the Recycled Water Project The City’s Recycled Water Project was developed in two phases. This allowed the funding of the project to be spread out over a greater period of time. Phase I was completed in July 1989, and Phase II was completed in May 1991. The total cost of the project was $15,200,000. To fund the project, the City received $7 million in low interest loans from the California State Water Resources Control Board. The remaining project costs were paid for with funds from revenue bond sales and cash reserves. The cost per acre foot of recycled water is approximately $1,200. Why use recycled water? Every gallon of recycled water for irrigation saves a gallon of potable water that can be used in homes and businesses. Recycled water serves an important role in the diversity of the City’s water supplies. Recycled water is used at over 40 sites throughout the City, and the annual demand for recycled water is currently 800 acre feet–approximately 700,000 gallons per day. The City continues to expand the use of recycled water at existing sites, as well as identifying new sites. |