On Monday, August 5, 2024, Austin Water announced plans for a new indirect potable reuse project as part of their long-term strategy to combat drought and ensure a sustainable water supply for the city. Despite recent rainfall easing some concerns about the ongoing drought, the utility is taking proactive steps to prepare for a drier future.
Water Resources Supervisor Marisa Flores Gonzalez presented the project to the city’s Water and Wastewater Commission, outlining a plan to recapture effluent wastewater for treatment and return it to Lady Bird Lake. This innovative approach involves natural mixing and eventual reintegration of the treated water back into the potable water supply. The goal is to have the infrastructure fully operational by 2028, providing an additional 11,000 acre-feet of potable water per year by 2040.
The project is part of Austin Water’s Water Forward Plan, a comprehensive strategy introduced in 2018 to enhance the utility’s drought resilience. In addition to the indirect potable reuse project, the plan includes initiatives such as Aquifer Storage and Recovery, brackish groundwater desalination, community-scale stormwater harvesting, and an expansion of the city’s reclaimed purple pipe system.
Indirect potable reuse is not a new concept in Texas, with cities like El Paso, Abilene, and Wichita Falls already implementing similar strategies to augment their water supplies. By leveraging treated wastewater, Austin Water aims to reduce reliance on traditional water sources and increase overall water security for the city.
Over the next few years, Austin Water will focus on building the necessary infrastructure for the project, including sidestream treatment facilities, a transmission line for reclaimed water, and a new intake and pump facility at Lady Bird Lake. The utility is committed to ensuring the project’s success and maximizing water savings in the long term.
As part of their commitment to transparency, Austin Water encourages residents to learn more about the Water Forward Plan on their website. By engaging with the community and implementing innovative water management strategies, the utility is taking proactive steps to address water challenges and build a more sustainable future for Austin.
In conclusion, Austin Water’s indirect potable reuse project represents a forward-thinking approach to water management in the face of increasing drought conditions. By embracing innovative solutions and long-term planning, the utility is setting a precedent for sustainable water practices that can benefit the city for years to come.