Making PureWater
In a previous edition of the Downstream Newsletter , we ran an article about the hot topic of water recycling and reuse . It covered our purple pipe system , and the potential for indirect and direct potable reuse ( DPR ). These are approaches to purifying wastewater and using it to enhance the local drinking water supply . In 2010 , the Department of Public Health was given a mandate to evaluate potential regulations for DPR by 2016 . Wastewater agencies and regulators from around California are working to create a uniform regulatory structure and safety protocols that will let us purify new drinking water locally .
Above is a map to give perspective on our current water supply . The shaded regions are all the streams and rivers in the Colorado River and Sacramento / San Joaquin Watersheds - where over 80 % of our drinking water comes from . The turquoise pins are the active wastewater and stormwater permit holders who discharge into those rivers before we get our drinking water . What happens in Vegas doesn ’ t stay in Vegas . Water exists in a natural cycle , and water reuse technology like DPR can add a new and safe local water supply for our semi-arid region .
Sacramento River - 19 % of All San Diego ’ s Water
Population Served : 25 Million People Rain and Snow Water : 22 Million Acre-Feet / year Wastewater Effluent : 843,900 Acre-Feet / year Pollution / Overflow / Storm Water Permits Issued : 4,800
Colorado River - 64 % of All San Diego ’ s Water
Population Served : 33 Million People Rain and Snow Water : 16 Million Acre-Feet / year Wastewater Effluent ( CA only ): 49,850 Acre-Feet / year Pollution / Overflow / Storm Water Permits Issued : 3,000
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