Water Recycling

Blog - <Kuffner, Charles. "Re: Recycling Water." Web log comment. On The Kuff. 8 Oct. 2011. Web. 10 Oct. 2011.>

Article from Blog - <Goodwyn, Wade. "Recycled Water Quenches San Antonio's Thirst : NPR." NPR : National Public Radio : News & Analysis, World, US, Music & Arts : NPR. PBS, 01 Oct. 2011. Web. 13 Oct. 2011>

Texas has been in the midst of a severe drought for the past twelve months. In the past, cities have been using the aquifers to supply new water and using up precious resources. Twenty years ago, San Antonio was using up the Edwards Aquifer. The Sierra Club sued the city in federal court, claiming San Antonio was endangering the Blind Salamander. Since San Antonio was unable to use fresh water from the Edwards Aquifer, over the last twenty years, they have perfected a recycling system to reuse water. Although this water is not considered drinkable or potable, it is pure enough to be used in the River Walk, in the Toyota manufacturing plants, and municipal golf courses. Sea World has even made their own water recycling system. Instead of using 8 million gallons, it now uses only 4 million gallons over the last 3 years.

One of the ways San Antonio has been able to preserve their water supply is to take water from the Edwards Aquifer during times of plenty and store this extra water in the Carrizo Springs. This can then be used during times of drought and not drain water from the Edwards Aquifer.

Part of this recycling system involves the city laying over 60 miles of pipeline throughout San Antonio that collects used water and sends it to a treatment plant. This innovative program was 20 years in the making, but has stood San Antonio in good stead during this historic drought.

I believe other cities in Texas and Oklahoma (areas that were severely hit during the Dust Bowl) should set aside funds to build underwater pipelines and treatment plants. This conservation would provide a whole new source of jobs.

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