Governing Board declares May 15-21 Water Reuse Week
MAITLAND, Fla., May 10, 2016 — The St. Johns River Water Management District’s Governing Board today approved a resolution proclaiming May 15-21, 2016, as Water Reuse Week. This is in an effort to help promote and encourage efficient use of reclaimed water in the district. Florida remains the national leader in water reuse.
“As we work to meet future water supply demands, reclaimed water has proven to be a viable alternative to using potable groundwater for many activities,” said District Governing Board Secretary Chuck Drake. “Recognizing Water Reuse Week is an excellent opportunity to raise awareness and spread the message that we need to value all water and make our communities and environment more resilient by thinking holistically about out water supply options.”
The largest use for reclaimed water is irrigation, and May is typically the month when irrigation demands peak due to hot and dry conditions. Within the district, there are 157 reuse systems that reuse more than 178 million gallons per day of reclaimed water for beneficial purposes, including irrigation of golf courses, residential lots and other green space, groundwater recharge, environmental enhancement and industrial purposes.
The district actively promotes and encourages efficient and effective use of reclaimed water in a variety of ways:
- implementation of a cooperative funding program that provides financial assistance to entities developing alternative water supplies, including water reuse;
- funding studies and pilot programs that promote innovative treatment technologies; and
- engaging in innovative uses and applications of reclaimed water.Approval of this resolution demonstrates the district’s continued support of the use and expansion of reclaimed water. It also aligns with the district’s core mission and strategic initiatives of maximizing the beneficial use of reclaimed water to offset potable water supplies and restore water levels and natural systems.