Recycled Water

Water is too valuable to be used just once. Every gallon of recycled water used in industrial applications or to irrigate landscaping saves a gallon of drinking water for domestic uses. But what is recycled water? Simply put, it’s previously used water that is captured and made suitable for new uses – primarily water that runs down the shower, sink and toilet drains. MNWD collects this water and uses an advanced treatment process to clean the water to strict federal and state standards.

Recycled water now makes up 25 percent of MNWD's total water supply, reducing the amount of costly Northern California and Colorado River water the District must purchase to meet our customers’ needs. This helps to keep our water rates lower. Recycled water is used in manufacturing operations and to irrigate landscapes, including parks, schools, golf courses, streetscapes and open space managed by many local community associations.

A Safe Source
Once it is tested for compliance with health requirements, MNWD delivers recycled water through a completely separate distribution system from domestic drinking water, utilizing nearly 144 miles of distinct purple pipes.

Recycled Water Updates