As the population grows, the demand for water is increasing and stressing potable
water systems. As this demand for potable water increases, use of reclaimed water
is becoming more and more important as an alternative source of water for
irrigation. Water reuse is the wave of the future in Las Vegas Valley, Nevada,
water management. In order to meet the water demand needs for major water users,
the Clark County Sanitation District and the Las Vegas Valley Water District have
created a water reclamation and reuse project in southwest Las Vegas to provide
recycled water to golf courses, schools and parks. One of the major concerns with
using reclaimed water for the golf courses is water quality. Factors which affect
the reclaimed water quality include salt concentrations, dissolved elements,
chlorides, and pH. The total dissolved solids (TDS) concentration of the
reclaimed water is approximately 1200-1400 mg/L. Excessive concentrations of
dissolved salts in the root zone hinders water uptake for landscape plants and
turf, and plants may become water-stressed even though the soil is moist. In
addition to water quality, the cost of recycled water is also an important aspect
of the feasibility of this project. This paper discusses how the $22 million
Water Reuse Facilities are optimized to make recycled water affordable, meet high
water quality standards and remain attractive for large irrigators to use. The
paper concludes with a discussion of financing issues, institutional complexities
in the project development, public acceptance, regulatory requirements and
benefits of water reuse. Includes table.