CLEAN WATER FOR A HEALTHY REEDY RIVER

What you should know:

Effluent is the treated water that flows from a Water Resource Recovery Facility. Water from our homes, businesses and industries undergoes a rigorous multi-step treatment process, meeting strict environmental standards.

ReWa uses 3.6 million gallons of effluent for irrigation purposes at its facilities. The utility uses 700 million gallons of effluent each year during the water treatment process at its WRRFs.

Why it matters:

  • Improving River Health: Effluent contains fewer bacteria than the river itself.

  • Protecting Aquatic Life: Effluent protects habitats, helping fish and other species thrive.

  • Supporting Recreation: Effluent supports recreational activities like paddling and swimming.

  • Sustaining Downstream Communities: Providing a reliable source of clean water that may be used for drinking water.


How we ensure quality:

Every drop of effluent is tested daily to meet the highest standards. Here’s what we monitor and control:

  • Nutrients: To prevent algal blooms.

  • Bacteria: For public health and wildlife safety.

  • Oxygen Levels: To support aquatic ecosystems.

  • Metals: To prevent pollution.

  • FUN FACT: Scientists at ReWa’s environmental laboratory perform tests daily to ensure the quality of the effluent.


Who oversees the process:

Effluent quality is maintained by a team of skilled professionals.

  • Licensed Operators: Certified experts overseeing treatment processes, ensuring efficiency and compliance with environmental standards.

  • Laboratory Analysts and Scientists: Conduct rigorous testing and monitoring to protect water quality and ecosystems.