From Toilet to Treasure: The Role of Recycled Water in Shaping a Hydro-Local Future

Lisa Shipek, the executive director of the Watershed Management Group, and Catlow Shipek, a senior program director, announced a significant development for Tucson: the city’s first facility dedicated to converting recycled wastewater into potable water. This initiative, often dubbed “toilet-to-tap,” marks a pivotal shift toward sustainable water management.

The Bureau of Reclamation will fully fund this project, leveraging resources in exchange for reduced allocations from Tucson’s Central Arizona Project. This move aims to lessen reliance on the overstressed Colorado River, a critical source of water for the region.

Watershed Management Group perceives this endeavor as essential in fostering a hydro-local community, which emphasizes the conservation and utilization of local water resources. The organization aims to expand renewable drinking water supplies while avoiding the burden of costly infrastructure projects.

As water usage cuts loom for all Colorado River users, Tucson’s proactive approach sets a precedent. By pursuing local water solutions, Tucson demonstrates leadership and collaboration in protecting the region’s water ecosystem.

WMG envisions a future for Tucson where local water sources are prioritized over distant water bodies, such as the Colorado River. The transition toward a hydro-local model seeks to enhance the health of both local rivers and the broader Colorado River system.

Utilizing recycled water multiple times generates a more sustainable water supply. The treatment technology for “direct potable reuse” has been validated to meet EPA drinking water standards. Moreover, this approach can reduce the impact of PFAS contamination in groundwater wells.

Recent statistics show a decline in daily water consumption among Tucson Water customers, currently averaging 74 gallons per person. WMG projects that reducing daily use to 40 gallons could eliminate the need for water from the Colorado River altogether.

In line with this vision, WMG’s Living Lab has successfully operated solely on rainwater supplies in 2024. This model invites future community engagement, illustrating the potential for Tucsonans and local businesses to follow suit.

The introduction of recycled water significantly benefits the local watershed, augmenting flows in the Santa Cruz River and aiding aquifer recharge. It also provides irrigation for local schools, parks, and golf courses, highlighting its integral role in the community.

Transitioning to a “One Water” philosophy recognizes the importance of all water sources. WMG advocates for reshaping perceptions around recycled water, transitioning it from being seen as a wasted resource to a valuable community asset.

Currently, recycled water is offered to schools, parks, and golf courses at discounted rates, presenting an economic advantage compared to potable water. As this water is increasingly integrated into local use, WMG suggests prioritizing assistance for watershed health, particularly groundwater recharge and river flow, over non-essential users such as certain golf courses.

Community members are encouraged to engage with WMG’s initiatives, including free classes at the Living Lab and participation in the River Run Network, aimed at restoring Tucson’s natural waterways. For more information, visit Watershedmg.org.