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Reclaimed water is recycled wastewater that has undergone advanced treatment to meet the specific standards for which it will be utilized. During the treatment process, which includes, but not limited to filtration and disinfection, the reclaimed water is monitored extensively. This level of quality control ensures that reclaimed water is safe and complies with the stringent standards that are developed by regulatory agencies at the local, state, and federal levels. Reclaimed water has multiple uses such as irrigation of public access areas and landscape; agricultural irrigation; groundwater recharge; wetlands creation, restoration, and enhancement; firefighting; amongst other permitted uses as stated in the Florida Statutes. Here in the City of Miramar, reclaimed water is exclusively used for irrigation of public access areas and landscape. Reclaimed water is also referred to as reuse or recycled water.
Importance of Reclaimed Water
Reclaimed water is a critical component of the City and Florida’s water resource, wastewater, and ecosystem management. Utilization of reclaimed water in lieu of drinking water for irrigation protects the State’s finite water resources such as aquifers and surface waterbodies. The treatment of wastewater to reclaimed water standard provides an avenue for the effective management of wastewater and establishment of a beneficial resource, both of which protects public health and the environment. In terms of ecosystem management, reclaimed water reduces the need to withdraw water for irrigation from canals, lakes and other surficial systems that are instrumental in the maintenance of a healthy ecosystem. During seasons of drought, surficial systems will be restricted, which negatively impacts those residents’ ability to rely on such sources for irrigation. Conversely, reclaimed water is considered “drought proof” and will be available during restrictions of alternative sources. In the City of Miramar, reclaimed water is our most effective conservation tool in protecting our precious water resources and achieving compliance with regulatory obligations.
Benefits of Reclaimed Water
The benefits of using reclaimed water are many and includes but not limited to:
- Utilization of an environmentally friendly, safe, and “drought proof” source for irrigation
- No cost to residents for usage
- Reduced fertilizer application due to nitrogen and phosphorous in reclaimed water
The reclaimed distribution system is identified by Pantone 522C purple pipes. The installation of purple pipes in your community enables you to connect to the system and initiate the use of reclaimed water for the sole purpose of irrigation. We look forward to your partnership with the City in being environmental stewards by utilizing this essential resource.
