Understanding Potable Reuse Aquifer Storage Recovery Practices and Permits

Reclaimed water reuse is increasingly being seen as a means of expanding and conserving available water supplies, with aquifer storage via direct injection considered as a means of storing reclaimed water, providing an economically viable means of storing advanced treated water while providing an “environmental buffer” and additional subsurface treatment before reuse.  While aquifer recharge and storage have often been used for nonpotable reclaimed reuse, there are a few potable reuse direct injection systems currently in operation or under development in Texas, California, Florida, and Arizona.  A national survey was completed on the use of potable reuse direct injection systems and regulatory programs: This paper reviews common practices that have been developed in current potable reuse direct injection systems, including the purpose; source water and pre-injection treatment; storage zone and recharge operations; Residence Time and Recovery Facilities:  Monitoring Requirements and challenges that have emerged with potable reuse direct injection systems.   water quality and injection of microorganisms into underground sources of drinking water, as well regulations that recognize aquifer storage as a means of creating subsurface water quality improvements and an “environmental buffer.”  As managers, practitioners, regulators, and other stakeholders involved in aquifer storage and potable reuse become more familiar with each others’ risks, constraints, and management measures, there will be greater opportunities to practice safe Potable Reuse ASR.