In recognition of Water Reuse Week, the South Florida Water Management District (SFWMD) is highlighting the importance of developing alternative water supplies to meet the growing demand on our traditional groundwater and surface water supplies.
Did you know the use of reclaimed water reduces the demand on our underground aquifers and preserves our precious water resources?
Florida has become a national leader in water reuse, reusing approximately 908 million gallons per day of water to conserve water supplies and recharge our freshwater resources.
Over the last two decades, water reuse within the SFWMD's 16-county region has increased by 60 percent to approximately 310 million gallons per day and has become integral to South Florida’s water supply. Today, there are over 100 water reuse facilities within the SFWMD's boundaries.
Reclaimed water can be used for many beneficial purposes, including:
- Irrigating golf courses, parks and other green spaces
- Creating wetlands and enhancing restoration
- Recharging groundwater
- Meeting urban demands for water to wash cars, flush toilets and maintain ponds and fountains
The color purple is used to identify pumps and pipes carrying reclaimed water for reuse. These highly-treated reclaimed water systems are continually monitored to ensure the health and welfare of the public and the environment are protected.