Reclaimed Water Guide

Reclaimed Water Guide
A Compilation of Information on
Successful Reclaimed Water Systems for
Utilities to Avoid “Re-Inventing the Wheel”
The Southwest Florida Water Management District (District) does not discriminate upon the basis of any
individual’s disability status. This non-discrimination policy involves every aspect of the District’s functions,
including one’s access to, participation, employment, or treatment in its programs or activities. Anyone
requiring reasonable accommodation as provided for in the Americans with Disabilities Act should contact
the Communications Department at (352) 796-7211 or 1-800-423-1476 (Florida only), extension 4757;
TDD number: 1-800-231-6103 (Florida only); fax number: (352) 754-6883 or Suncom 663-6883.
CD-ROM/PDF edition (RECLAIMED.PDF): 11/24/99

Print file edition (Reclaimed Water Guide.pdf): 06/12/99
Table of Contents Introduction
F
Introduction ...................................................................................................... page 1 lorida is a water wonderland, with hundreds of miles districts charged with the mission of maintaining the
of coastline, numerous bays, estuaries, river systems, balance between the water needs of current and future
Purpose .............................................................................................................. page 1 and literally thousands of lakes. users without damaging the environment. For this reason,
These water features combined with Florida’s sunny the water management districts throughout the state are
A Message from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection.......... page 2 climate make an ideal place for us to work and live. The actively encouraging the development of alternative
rest of the nation apparently wants to live here, too — water supplies to meet existing and future water resource
Contributing Systems ........................................................................................ page 5 almost 6,000 new residents move to Florida each week. demands.
This phenomenal growth is beneficial to Florida’s Reclaimed water is one of these alternative supplies.
Ordinances ...................................................................................................... page 11 economy. However, it is taking a drastic toll on the state’s By utilizing reclaimed water, a community can:
natural resources. Florida has a limited supply of fresh • decrease the reliance on stressed groundwater
Policies and Regulations ................................................................................. page 23 water. Each new resident and business competes for a supplies;
share of this finite resource. • increase the recharge of groundwater;
Surveys ............................................................................................................. page 48 Florida’s traditional source of water has been ground- • reduce the discharge of waste water treatment plant
water. The reliance upon the Floridan aquifer to supply (WWTP) effluent to surface waters;
Petitions, Permits and Contracts .................................................................... page 49 most of the fresh water used in central and southwest • reduce saltwater intrusion into the aquifer; and
Florida has resulted in large regions experiencing saltwa- • provide a drought-proof irrigation supply.
Public Information and Notification .............................................................. page 71 ter intrusion, lowered lake and wetland levels, and
reduced spring and river flows. The use of reclaimed water as a non-potable water
Signage ............................................................................................................ page 92 The Southwest Florida Water Management District is supply has a long-proven track record.
the agency responsible for managing and protecting the The question is not if it can be done, but how soon will
Inspection Information ................................................................................... page 95 freshwater resources in a 16-county area of west central it be done?
Florida. It is one of the state’s five water management
Supplemental Sources, Supply, Storage and Disposal .................................. page 101
System Financing .......................................................................................... page 104
Rates and Fees ............................................................................................... page 110

Purpose
Appurtenances .............................................................................................. page 111
Reference Resources ...................................................................................... page 112 The purpose of this publication is to provide guidance
to new, as well as established, reclaimed water systems.
Authors and Contributors ............................................................................. page 113 The examples provided are a compilation of various types
and sizes of successful reclaimed water systems.
Contacts ........................................................................................................ page 113
Words to the Wise ......................................................................................... page 114
Southwest Florida Water Management District

1
A Message from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection
Florida’s Reuse Program back-ups to reuse systems, when reuse has been • Mandates that the Public Service Commission (PSC) The PSC has entered into a memorandum of
Lauren Walker-Coleman determined to be feasible. allow utilities implementing reuse to recover the full understanding (MOU) with the five water management
Reuse Specialist • Statutory and rule requirements for preparation of cost of reuse facilities. districts. A separate MOU between the DEP and the PSC
Florida Department of Environmental Protection reuse feasibility studies and associated “Guidelines for • Requires that consumptive use permits be consistent has been implemented. Under the MOUs, the PSC will
Preparation of Reuse Feasibility Studies”. with local reuse programs. assist the water management districts and the DEP in
Introduction • Provisions in the Florida APRICOT Act, which • Mandates that DEP ensure that permits under review review of reuse feasibility studies submitted by utilities
Reuse of reclaimed water has become an integral part facilitate back-up discharges for reuse projects and are consistent with the reuse requirements of the subject to PSC regulation.
of water resources management, wastewater management, eliminate previous statutory barriers to reuse projects appropriate water management district’s consumptive
and ecosystem management in Florida. Reuse is beneficial involving ground water recharge. use permit. This applies to facilities that are located
because it recharges ground water and reduces demands within, that serve customers located within, or that Historical Perspective
on valuable ground water suitable for drinking water. It The Water Policy discharge within a Water Resource Caution Area, and In 1982, the Department of Environmental Regulation
eliminates surface water discharges that may pollute The state’s “Water Policy,” Chapter 62-40, Florida that have responsibility for water and domestic (DER), a predecessor of the DEP, created Chapter 17-6,
valuable surface waters, and postpones costly investment Administrative Code (F.A.C.), serves to guide the reuse wastewater. F.A.C., which dealt with domestic and industrial
for development of new water sources and supplies. and water conservation activities and other programs of • Mandates that local governments implementing reuse wastewater treatment plants, and issues related to water
the water management districts. It promotes and systems require developers to comply with the reuse quality-based effluent limits. At this time, a separate
Program Summary encourages reuse and water conservation by requiring the program. document, Land Application of Domestic Wastewater
The Florida Legislature has established the water management districts to designate Water Resource Effluent in Florida, was published by the DER and was
encouragement and promotion of water conservation and Caution Areas—areas in which reuse is required Antidegradation Policy adopted by reference into Chapter 17-6, F.A.C. The term
reuse of reclaimed water as formal state objectives in (provided that reuse is feasible). The Antidegradation Policy is contained in Chapter reuse was never used in the Land Application Manual and
Subsections 373.250(1) and 403.064(1), Florida Statutes 62-4, F.A.C., “Permits,” and Chapter 62-302, F.A.C., there was very little text related to public access areas.
(F.S.). In response to these statutory objectives, the Section 403.064, F.S. “Surface Water Quality Standards.” These rules require an In 1989, Chapter 17-6, F.A.C. was split into several
Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), This section contains the key statutory language applicant, for a new or expanded surface water discharge, chapters—Chapter 17-610, F.A.C. dealt with reuse of
and other state agencies have implemented a dealing specifically with reuse and accomplishes the to demonstrate that the new or expanded surface water reclaimed water, Chapter 17-650, F.A.C., dealt with water
comprehensive reuse program. The key components of following: discharge is clearly in the public interest. As part of the quality based effluent limits (WQBELs), and Chapter 17-
the reuse program are listed below: • Establishes the promotion and encouragement of public interest test, the applicant must evaluate the 600, F.A.C., dealt with domestic wastewater treatment
• Provisions in the state’s “Water Policy,” Chapter 62- reuse and water conservation as formal state feasibility of reuse of reclaimed water in order to plants. Separate chapters were created for regulation of
40, Florida Administrative Code (F.A.C.), which objectives. determine if it is economically or technologically industrial wastewater facilities.
encourage and promote reuse and water conservation • States that reuse is considered to be “in the public reasonable. If so, reuse will be preferred over the surface In 1993, when the DER and Department of Natural
by requiring reuse in the Water Resource Caution interest.” water discharge. This has proven to be an effective means Resources (DNR) merged to form the Department of
Areas designated by the water management districts. • Concludes that reuse systems designed and operated to encourage reuse of reclaimed water, while discouraging Environmental Protection, these rules were renumbered
• Water Management District rules encourage, according to DEP rules shall be considered new and expanded discharges of effluent. under the 62 series. Hence, the reuse rules came to be
promote, and require reuse. environmentally acceptable and are not a threat to designated under Chapter 62-610, F.A.C. This chapter
• Chapter 62-610, F.A.C., which contains public health and safety. Reuse Feasibility Studies was revised in 1996 to make provisions for industrial uses
comprehensive rules governing reuse. • Requires applicants for domestic wastewater permits There are several rules, statutes, or laws that require of reclaimed water, and ground water recharge and
• The Antidegradation Policy in Chapters 62-4 and 62- for facilities located in Water Resource Caution Areas preparation of reuse feasibility studies. The DEP, with indirect potable reuse.
302, F.A.C., which encourages reuse over new or to prepare a reuse feasibility study. assistance from the water management districts and the Two early reuse projects that greatly impacted reuse in
expanded surface water discharges. • Places limitations on deep well injection and other PSC, published a guidance document entitled “Guidelines Florida are the St. Petersburg dual distribution system,
• Provisions in Subsections 403.064(13) and (14), F.S., effluent disposal activities. for Preparation of Reuse Feasibility Studies for Applicants and Tallahassee’s award-winning spray irrigation system.
which limit effluent disposal by deep well injection • Provides statutory authority for inside uses of Having Responsibility for Wastewater Management” in St. Petersburg’s reuse system features the use of
and surface water discharges within Water Resource reclaimed water. November 1991. As required by Chapter 62-610, F.A.C., reclaimed water for irrigation of residential properties, golf
Caution Areas to wells and discharges serving as • Encourages local governments to implement reuse these guidelines will be used by applicants for domestic courses, parks, schools, and other landscaped areas. This
projects. wastewater permits when required by applicable rules and system, which began operation in 1977, was the first
• Allows local governments to allocate costs of reuse statutes. These guidelines can also be used by an applicant public access reuse system in Florida. Florida’s high-level
systems in a reasonable manner. for consumptive use permits when the applicant has disinfection criteria, which are integral to the state’s reuse
responsibility for both water supply and wastewater rules, were derived as a result of experimental work done
management.
2
by the State Virologist, Dr. Flora Mae Wellings. Phase I revisions became effective in January 1996. The TABLE 1: OVERVIEW OF CHAPTER 62-610, F.A.C.
Almost 2,000 acres of farmland used to grow corn, Phase II revisions of the reuse rules focus on the
soybeans, coastal bermuda grass, and other feed and following: Part Contents Treatment & Disinfection
fodder crops are irrigated with reclaimed water at • Refinement of rules governing ground water recharge Requirements
Southeast Farms in Tallahassee. The farm receives its and indirect potable reuse.
reclaimed water from the Thomas P. Smith Reclamation • Refinement of requirements for use of reclaimed water I General: Applicability, definitions, technical guidance, forms,
Facility. This agricultural reuse system dates back to the in open cooling towers. engineering report, O&M requirements, & pretreatment programs. N/A
mid-1960s and has been extensively studied by USGS and • Creation of a rule in Part III governing the use of
the University of Florida. various water supplies to augment available supplies of II Slow-Rate Land Application Systems, Restricted Public Access:
reclaimed water. Agricultural reuse involving feed, fodder, & pasture crops. Secondary treatment & basic
• Creation of a rule in Part III governing aquifer storage disinfection.
Rules & recovery (ASR) of reclaimed water.
Chapter 62-610, F.A.C. • Creation of a rule governing blending of III Slow-Rate Land Application Systems, Public Access Areas,
This chapter, entitled “Reuse of Reclaimed Water and demineralization concentrate with reclaimed water. Residential Irrigation, & Edible Crops: Irrigation of parks, golf courses,
Land Application,” governs reuse of reclaimed water and • Addition of monitoring requirements for protozoan residential properties, & other landscaped areas. Includes urban uses
land application in Florida. This chapter was revised and pathogens. like toilet flushing, street cleaning, construction dust control, fire
refined in 1989, 1990, and 1996 to address issues such as protection, & decorative water features. Secondary treatment, filtration, &
permitting, irrigation of edible crops, industrial uses of Phase II revisions were adopted by the Environmental high-level disinfection.
reclaimed water, and other urban uses. An overview of Regulation Commission in January 1999, and are
Chapter 62-610, F.A.C., is provided in Table 1. expected to become effective during the summer of 1999. IV Rapid-Rate Land Application Systems: Ground water recharge using
All of the systems in Table 1, except for overland flow rapid infiltration basins (RIBs) & absorption fields. Secondary treatment & basic
systems, are categorized as reuse systems. Also, single-cell, disinfection. Nitrate < 12 mg/L.
continuously loaded rapid infiltration basins (RIBs) and Coordination RIBs in unfavorable hydrogeologic
absorption fields are not categorized as reuse systems. Reuse Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) conditions require additional
Provisions for limited wet weather discharges for reuse This committee is charged with providing technical treatment & disinfection.
systems are contained in Rule 62-610.860, F.A.C. Under input into DEP rulemaking. The committee members
restricted conditions, the DEP can permit wet weather have a great deal of reuse expertise and experience. The V Ground Water Recharge & Indirect Potable Reuse: Injection projects
discharges with minimal water quality review. TAC has been involved in the development of the reuse and augmentation of sur face water supplies. Varies with the system type. Minimum
Treatment and disinfection requirements contained in rules since the inception of Chapter 17-610, F.A.C., in is secondary treatment, filtration,
the reuse rules are designed to protect the public health 1989. high-level disinfection & meeting
and to provide a safe reclaimed water product. Florida’s drinking water standards. Some
reuse rules are consistent with the EPA’s Guidelines for Reuse Coordinating Committee projects have TOC & TOX limits.
Water Reuse, and Florida’s rules played a major role in the Several state agencies are involved in reuse. The DEP
development of these national guidelines. coordinates the reuse program, administers the domestic VI Overland Flow Systems: A land application treatment system. A reduced level of secondary
wastewater permitting program, and has the primary treatment with low level disinfection.
Rulemaking: 1993–1999 responsibility for administering water quality programs.
In September 1993, Florida initiated rulemaking The water management districts are responsible for VII Industrial Uses: Cooling, process, & wash waters. Secondary treatment & basic
designed to refine the reuse rules in Chapter 62-610, designating Water Resource Caution Areas, issuing disinfection. High-level disinfection
F.A.C. This rulemaking has been conducted in two consumptive use permits, and other water quantity issues. required for some cooling towers.
phases. Phase I revisions served to refine the reuse rules. Water management districts may impose reuse
A new Part V of the chapter was created to address requirements in consumptive use permits for facilities in VIII Permitting: Permitting, reuse/disposal classification, feasibility
ground water recharge and indirect potable reuse. Part V Water Resource Caution Areas. The PSC regulates rates studies, storage lakes, protection of water quality, limited wet
simply cross-referenced applicable rules contained in for investor-owned utilities located in 37 Florida counties. weather discharges, N/A
other F.A.C. chapters. In addition, a new Part VII dealing These utilities are able to distribute the costs of reuse
with industrial uses of reclaimed water was established. facilities among water, wastewater, and reclaimed water
customers. The Department of Health (DOH) serves as a
technical advisor for public health issues. The DOH is
also represented on the Reuse TAC. The Florida (continued)

3
A Message from the Florida DEP (continued)
Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services DEP Permitting Activities FIGURE 1

Reuse Capacity
(DACS) is involved in agricultural reuse projects. In Provisions for permitting domestic wastewater facilities
addition, the Florida Department of Community Affairs are found in Chapter 62-620, F.A.C. The standards for 1000
(DCA) administers Florida’s comprehensive planning issuing or denying a permit are provided by Rule 62-
800
program. 620.320, F.A.C. Additional requirements for permitting of
Coordination among these agencies is critical to the reclaimed water projects are contained in Part VIII of 600
continued success of the reuse program. In order to Chapter 62-610, F.A.C. MGD
effectively coordinate the state’s reuse program, the DEP, Coordination of the permitting activities of the DEP 400
the PSC, and the five water management districts formed and the five water management districts is promoted by
200
the Reuse Coordinating Committee in 1992. Today, the Part VIII of Chapter 62-610, F.A.C. Rule 62-
DOH, DCA and DACS also sit on the committee. The 610.800(10), F.A.C., requires that domestic wastewater 0
1986 1990 1992 1994 1997
DEP’s Reuse Coordinator chairs the committee consisting and reuse permits issued by the DEP be consistent with
FIGURE 2 Year
of representatives from all the agencies. The committee the reuse requirements included in the consumptive use
Reuse Forecasts
meets regularly to coordinate reuse-related activities and permits issued by the water management districts.
to promote communication between the member Before the creation of Chapter 62-610, F.A.C., the 1500
agencies. DEP permitted discrete reuse pipes and specific
The DEP issues permits for domestic wastewater application sites, and specified permitted capacities for 1000
treatment facilities—potential sources of reclaimed water. each individual site where reclaimed water was used.
The water management districts issue consumptive use With the establishment of Part III of Chapter 62-610, MGD
permits to users of water—potential users of reclaimed F.A.C., a new approach to permitting these types of 500
water. Coordination is needed to ensure that Florida takes systems was introduced—the general service area permit.
Flow
advantage of opportunities to match potential reclaimed This new approach is outlined in Rules 62-610.490 and Capacity 0
water sources with potential customers. As a result, 62-610.800, F.A.C. Generally, the permit for the reuse 1995 2000 2005 2010 2015 2020
representatives of the permitting programs in the six DEP system will be combined with the wastewater treatment Year
districts meet regularly with their counterparts in the five plant permit. If DEP has reasonable assurances that a
water management districts to better coordinate proposed project complies with applicable rule
permitting activities for reuse projects in Florida. requirements, the DEP moves to issue the permit.
Reuse Conventions Florida’s Reuse Experience

The Reuse Coordinating Committee developed Reuse Water reuse in Florida is rapidly growing in popularity.
Conventions to promote consistency and uniformity In 1997, there were over 425 reuse systems in Florida
among the water management districts in development of (DEP, 1998). These systems provided more than 440
the District Water Management Plans required by million gallons of reclaimed water per day for various uses.
Chapter 62-40, F.A.C. The “Reuse Conventions” were Figure 1 shows the growth of reuse capacity in Florida
published by the Reuse Coordinating Committee in 1993. from 1986 to 1997. If the current trend in reuse
Some of the Reuse Conventions dealt with the definitions continues, the reuse capacity in the year 2020 will have
of reuse, reclaimed water, feasible, effluent, reuse grown to nearly 1400 million gallons per day! (See Figure
feasibility study, and Water Resource Caution Areas. 2)
Reuse of reclaimed water is an excellent way to
conserve the valuable water resources of Florida. It is safe,
sensible, and economical. Please join the state in its
efforts to: Use It Again, Florida!

4
Contributing Systems
City of St. Petersburg City of St. Petersburg the reclaimed water system demand since 1977 has
Large Public Access System Large Public Access System significantly contributed to suppressing potable water
20MGD 20MGD demands over the past fourteen years. Significant
economic and environmental benefits have been derived
City of Largo Volusia Co. St. Petersburg has had to deal with water and from the development of this form of water reclamation.
Medium Public Access System Citrus Co. wastewater issues for more than a century. Reservoir Lake, Since its inception, annual demand for potable water has
7MGD Seminole Co. today known as Mirror Lake, was tapped as the City’s first been stabilized while the demand for nutrient rich
Sumter Co.
major water resource in 1899. By 1923, six wells had been reclaimed water has steadily increased.
Lake Co.
Sarasota County Hernando Co. Conserv II
City of Orlando
drilled around Mirror Lake and three more around The reclaimed water system has been an economic
Small Public Access System
Orange Co.
Crescent Lake; all nine combining for a daily yield of benefit to all the City’s utility customers in that several
5MGD nearly 3.5 million gallons of water. St. Petersburg’s growing potable water system projects have been delayed
population soon stressed this resource to its limits and indefinitely, e.g., additional treatment units at the Cosme
Pasco Co.
Conserv II within five short years St. Petersburg was a water-scarce Water Treatment Plant, booster stations on the 48-inch
Large Agricultural System community. It was during this timeframe that City Fathers water transmission main in the Safety Harbor area and the
28MGD Osceola Co. Brevard had the foresight to purchase well fields in the neighboring southside booster station and storage facility. The cost
City of Largo counties of Hillsborough and Pasco to ensure a supply of avoidance for these projects is in the range of $25 to $30
Hillsborough Co.
Manatee County Polk Co.
water for the citizens of St. Petersburg for the future. million. Persistent expansion of the reclaimed water system
Medium Agricultural System City of Plant City A hundred plus years later we find ourselves in much will continue to provide an economic benefit to utility
Pinellas Co.
10MGD the same dilemma! In the 1970s we were faced with customers because the development of new, very
City of St. Petersburg making a landmark decision. A report published by the expensive, raw water supplies will be delayed. There is a
City of Plant City Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), rated “Tampa critical shortage of available new water sources in the
Small Agricultural System Bay with having the most polluted shoreline in the Tampa Bay area.
3MGD Manatee Co. Hardee Co.
nation.” This was a prelude to the approval of the Wilson New water supplies might come in the form of
Grizzle Act, “mandating wastewater treatment plants desalination of brackish and/or sea water and/or the
Okeechobee Co.
Highlands Co. discharging to Tampa Bay and its tributaries treat their development of ground water sources in distant locations.
wastewater to that of drinking water standards or cease There are many environmental and regulatory issues to be
DeSoto Co.
discharging to surface waters altogether.” A statement was resolved before these sources of water can be “harvested”
Sarasota Co. issued by Southwest Florida Water Management District for public use. In any case, the cost of new water will be
(SWFWMD), “declaring St. Petersburg as a water shortage very expensive and the economic impact to utility
Southwest Florida Water Glades Co. area.” As in the late 1920s, City Council in the 1970s customers will be significant.
Management District Charlotte Co.
again took prompt action to resolve these issues by The recycling system selected by the City incorporates
LOCATION OF CONTRIBUTING SYSTEMS developing a reclaimed water system to eliminate discharge using highly treated effluent primarily for landscape
of treated wastewater to surrounding surface waters and to irrigation of public and residential areas throughout St.
reduce the demand for potable water pumped from City Petersburg. The treatment at each of the four reclamation
owned well fields in neighboring counties. This was a very plants consists of grit removal, mechanical aeration,
bold step in the early 1970s. Up to that time, no major clarification, filtration, disinfection, and storage of the
community in the nation had considered undertaking the reclaimed water before use in the designated spray
development of an urban irrigation system using recycled irrigation areas or disposal of surplus reclaimed water by
wastewater on such a large scale. deep injection wells.
The reclaimed water system has continued to expand Since all four of the plants are connected by a looped
and change in character since its inception in 1977, from reclaimed water distribution system, the loss of reclaimed
one of an alternative mode of wastewater effluent disposal water to a customer area from one WWTP can be made up
to one of a fully operational third service encompassing from one of the other three regional plants. This ability to
water treatment and distribution, wastewater collection feed the reclaimed water distribution system from each
and treatment, and reclaimed water supply. The growth in (continued)

5
Contributing Systems (continued)
plant maximizes service reliability to our reclaimed water constructed in the late 1970s was limited to serving golf City of Largo including the Pinellas County waste to energy power
customers. courses, parks, schools, and large commercial areas. Since Medium Public Access System plant (RESCO), Honeywell, R.P. Scherer, and Home
St. Petersburg’s four regional wastewater treatment the plants were located at the four corners of the City, the 7MGD Shopping Network.
plants have a combined capability of producing 68.4 largest pipe in the system is only 42 inches in diameter, Reclaimed water, which meets more than 98 percent
million gallons of reclaimed water for irrigation daily. The and most are less than 36 inches. In general, large-scale Largo Sparkling Water System of the primary and secondary drinking water standards, is
four regional facilities not only serve St. Petersburg, but excavations were not necessary, a factor that contributed Largo is a city of 75,000 residents, located in the fast- the product of Largo’s 18 MGD (permitted) Advanced
provide service to adjacent communities as well. Each of to the cost-effectiveness of the reclaimed water growing Tampa Bay area. Largo is also located in Pinellas Wastewater Treatment Facility. This reclaimed water has
the facilities is staffed with operating personnel 24 hours a distribution system. The cost of this project was County, the most densely populated county in Florida. no smell, it does not stain and it has a very low salt
day to assure the integrity of the reclaimed water being approximately $25 million. The City of Largo does not own a potable water system. content. The City’s reclaimed water is crystal clear and
produced. In 1981, the City applied for EPA grant funding to All potable water used by its residents is supplied by the contains micro-nutrients which enhance some of its uses
The treatment process consists of four basic steps. expand the reclaimed water distribution system into Pinellas County Water System. especially in the irrigation of residential and commercial
Step 1. Sand and grit removal: The process removes non- residential areas. A study conducted in support of the With no potable water system of its own, Largo has green areas. The extensive (tertiary) treatment and
biodegradable material, reducing the amount of matter or grant application identified four areas in the City where concentrated its environmental efforts on its “state of the disinfection that the wastewater receives, along with a
suspended solids in the water. groundwater quality was deemed especially poor for art” advanced wastewater treatment facility, sludge rigorous inspection and cross-connection control
Step 2. The biological process is an aerobic “activated sludge” irrigation. These areas were located adjacent to the coast pelletizing factory, and its “Sparkling Water” reclaimed program, ensure that public health and environmental
process using the micro-organisms that inhabit the aeration and designated “water quality critical” because the water system. quality are always protected.
basin to break down the biodegradable solids. The aeration shallow groundwater supplies were either inadequate or In the 1980s, studies showed that almost 40 percent of
period is relatively short, three to six hours. This particular high concentrations of chlorides or iron were present. the drinking water used by utility customers was for
type of activated sludge treatment retains the nitrogen in the Many of these locations were dredge and fill sites, where irrigation purposes. Largo officials recognized that water Sarasota County
ammonia phase. A longer aeration period would convert the expensive waterfront homes were constructed. This study conservation steps were imperative. So in 1984 the City Small Public Access System
nitrogen to nitrate but would cost more money in power. No led to the expansion of the reclaimed water system into developed its “Sparkling Water System” to supply high 5MGD
phosphorus is removed in the process. This makes the water residential areas. A $10 million system expansion was quality reclaimed water for irrigation. Starting in 1987,
especially good for plants due to its fertilizer value. completed in 1986 and served approximately 9,300 cooperative funding from the Southwest Florida Water Sarasota County originally consisted of a conglomerate
Step 3. Clarification: This phase allows the liquid, after being residences in the water quality critical areas. Management District (SWFWMD) enabled the City to of privately-owned, package wastewater treatment plants,
churned in the aeration basin, to quietly settle, permitting the Since 1977, more than $100 million has been greatly accelerate the expansion efforts of its system. lacking a regionalized, wastewater utility. In 1994, the
remaining suspended solids to fall to the bottom of the tank or expended to upgrade and expand the four wastewater The City’s “Sparkling Water” reclaimed water system Board of County Commissioners adopted a consolidation
to be skimmed from the surface of the clarifier. treatment plants to a capacity of 68.4 MGD and to was designed by Quentin L. Hampton Associates, Inc., as and acquisition plan to purchase or acquire smaller plants,
Step 4. The final step in the process of removing suspended construct almost 300 miles of reclaimed water piping. a water conservation and reuse plan that features a decommission or modify them, and tie them into a
solids that survive the clarification process is filtration (the The City’s reclaimed water system is an integral part of reclaimed water system that conserves drinking water, regional water reclamation facility. Sarasota County
capture of microscopic particles that still remain in the water the puzzle as water and wastewater issues become more improves the water quality of Tampa Bay, and, at the same began its reuse program in 1988 with the acquisition of
after clarification has been completed). Filtration produces a and more entwined. The cost to expand the reclaimed time, replenishes water being withdrawn from the the Bent Tree facility. As flows increased at the regional
water which is near drinking water in clarity, but does not water system to its maximum usage is estimated at $15 Floridan aquifer. water reclamation facility, the reuse program was
affect the nitrogen and phosphorus compounds. million, which would serve about 17,000 customers. Largo’s “Sparkling Water System” is a public access expanded to provide reuse to four additional golf courses.
The water is then sanitized through a chlorination There is a definite economic benefit to expanding this reclaimed water system with residential, commercial, Two more acquisitions within the past four years brought
process and sent to on-site storage tanks. The removal of system to its maximum versus implementing surface water recreational, and industrial users. The City’s system has Sarasota County into the reuse business in earnest.
the suspended solids in the filters improves the disposal of excess product and developing new water expanded to include seven golf courses, 80 commercial/ The reuse program was started due to a number of
effectiveness of chlorination. A measure of the bacterial sources that are not groundwater dependent. As the industrial customers, and almost 3,000 residential factors: 1) dispose of effluent in an environmentally
quality of the water indicates that no pathogens normally program builds in momentum and the customer base services. An average of five to eight MGD of the friendly manner, 2) extend the life of drinking water
survive this process. Each of the four treatment facilities broadens, management of the resource will be vitally advanced wastewater treatment facility’s 12 MGD of flow supply resources, 3) reduce the need to expand potable
have storage tanks ranging in size from 2 million to 8 important. It is not our desire to have the customer base is reused by Largo’s customers each day. The majority of water treatment plants, and 4) reduce groundwater
million gallons, thus providing a combined storage competing for the resource. the reclaimed water is for irrigation. However, there are withdrawals, thereby protecting against saltwater
capacity of 25 million gallons. several major commercial and industrial customers using intrusion. Encompassing both the north and south county
The initial reclaimed water distribution system Largo “Sparkling Water” for process and cooling water,

6
service areas, Sarasota County provides public access What does the future hold for WATER CONSERV II? contended that the effluent discharge was contributing to member research team from the U of F Institute of Food
reclaimed water to 15 golf courses, numerous medians, a A series of devastating freezes in 1983, 1985, and 1989 the degradation of Lake Toho and its fish habitat. The and Agricultural Sciences (IFAS) Lake Alfred Citrus
sod farm, three parks and over 1,000 single family homes. put many citrus growers out of business and forced others court sided with Save Our Lake and issued an injunction Research and Education Center, and the U of F
In addition, reuse is provided to many multi-family to move their operations to south Florida and a against the City and County to cease discharge of effluent Cooperative Extension Service fruit crops specialist for
dwellings and common areas. Our customers are master- potentially warmer climate. Irrigation flow rates during into Shingle Creek by March 1988. Orange and Lake Counties. The City and County also
metered and consumption is billed through the developer freezing conditions are over 11 times greater than normal The City and County immediately set out to find a offered two incentives to the citrus growers for signing up
or homeowner’s association. daily flow rates. Are there other agricultural crops that suitable alternative for the discharge of their effluent. with the project. First, reclaimed water would be provided
Sarasota County has ten wastewater treatment plants. don’t require freeze protection, yet provide a satisfactory They participated in a federally-funded regional to the growers free for the first 20 years and at pressures
Six will contribute to the regional reuse system with at return to the farmer? West Orange County is the County’s wastewater plan called Southwest Orange County 201 suitable for microsprinkler irrigation. Second, water would
least advanced secondary treatment levels. We supply last citrus strong-hold; it is also one of the last major Facilities Plan. The objective of the plan was to identify a be provided during freezing conditions for enhanced cold
approximately 5.8 MGD into the reuse system and have a undeveloped sections of the County. Residential and cost-effective, environmentally sound solution to provide protection.
total capacity nearing 9.0 MGD. Two of the regional commercial development seems inevitable. With all of wastewater capacity for westerly Orlando and southwest The area residents cautiously accepted the project after
water reclamation facilities are in the process of being these factors in mind, the City and County realized the Orange County through the year 2000. assurances were provided by the City and County through
expanded to double their existing plant capacity and will need to diversify WATER CONSERV II’s user base. Five alternatives (deep well injection, ocean outfall, an interlocal agreement between the City and County
be completed within one year and three years, Through an innovative lease agreement between the Rapid Infiltration Basins [RIBs], Groundwater and several resolutions that were adopted by the County
respectively. City and County and world-renowned golf educator Phil Conservation Program, and agricultural irrigation) were to address and be sensitive to concerns of the residents.
The majority of our water reclamation facilities pump Ritson, construction began on the 911-acre Orange investigated. No single alternative stood out as the answer The concerns focused on the safety, health, and welfare of
from an isolated storage pond onsite. Because of this, we County National Golf Center (OCNGC) in October to the issue. Further study revealed that a combination of the area residents and the need to minimize potential
often have algae and debris entering the reuse system. 1996. The 42-acre driving range opened in March 1997 agricultural irrigation and RIBs would provide a cost- adverse environmental impacts, which might be caused by
About one year ago, we installed state of the art Arkal and play began on the Panther Lake (south) Course in effective alternative. As a result, WATER CONSERV II the project.
filters to alleviate the debris entering the system. These September 1997. The first 9 holes of the Crooked Cat was born. The City and County elected to hire a contract
filters have proven extremely effective and, as a result, (north) Course opened in January 1998. Several other Planning, design and permitting got underway almost operator for the operation and maintenance (O&M) of
will be installed at the other major water reclamation facilities are under construction at the site. Reclaimed immediately. Construction began in 1983. The project the project. The contract operator would also provide
facilities. water is being supplied for irrigation of all of the facilities. met with strong resistance from the citrus growers and liaison services between the City/County/Project and the
RIBs have been built between some of the fairways and residents in west Orange and southeast Lake counties. project citrus growers and area residents. A cost-plus-
landscaped so as not to be noticed by those playing golf. The citrus growers were not convinced that the irrigation fixed-fee budget for the contract operator was developed
Conserv II When completed, the Center will use an average of 2 of their groves with a product called reclaimed water and implemented to allow the City and County to remain
Large Agricultural System million gallons of reclaimed water daily for irrigation and would be beneficial to them. The residents joined forces in control of day-to-day activities.
28MGD an average of 1 million gallons of reclaimed water will be as part of the NIMBY (Not In My Back Yard) group to Construction continued into late 1986. Startup of the
discharged daily to the RIBs for recharge of the Floridan keep the project from locating in their area. The City and various phases of the project started in June and
History aquifer. County immediately began negotiations with both groups continued through late November. Commercial operation
WATER CONSERV II is the largest water reuse As the City and County continue to increase in to resolve all concerns. began on December 1, 1986, 15 months ahead of the
project of its kind in the world, a combination of population, so will the amount of reclaimed water that is The citrus growers agreed to accept the reclaimed March 1988 date to cease discharge into Shingle Creek.
agricultural irrigation and rapid infiltration basins (RIBs). produced. The City and County are already looking into water after the City and County provided research on the
It is the first reuse project in Florida permitted by the the future for WATER CONSERV II to ensure that it effects of reclaimed water on citrus production and fruit The Present
Department of Environmental Protection to irrigate crops remains the premier reclaimed water project and success quality. Dr. R.C.J. Koo, a leading authority on citrus From the beginning in December 1986 with a handful
produced for human consumption with reclaimed water. story that it is. irrigation at the University of Florida’s (U of F) Lake of citrus growers and a RIB system with a capacity of
The City of Orlando and Orange County are the joint Alfred Citrus Research & Education Center, provided the 15.88 mgd, WATER CONSERV II has grown into one of
owners of WATER CONSERV II. The Past citrus growers and the City and County with initial the largest reuse projects in the state. The project
The City of Orlando and Orange County took a In 1979, a group known as Save Our Lake took the research data that showed irrigating of citrus with presently supplies reclaimed water to 58 citrus growers, 9
liability and turned it into an asset. In the beginning, City of Orlando and Orange County to court in an effort reclaimed water would be beneficial. The City and landscape and foliage nurseries, 2 tree farms, 2 landfills
they convinced skeptical citrus growers in West Orange to stop the discharge of effluent into Shingle Creek from County also agreed to provide funding for researching the (one of which has a soil cement production facility), an
and South Lake counties to join the project and irrigate the City’s McLeod Road Wastewater Treatment Facility long-term effects of the irrigation of citrus with reclaimed animal shelter, the MFCF, the OCNGC, and a RIB
their crops with reclaimed water. The reclaimed water and the County’s Sand Lake Road Wastewater Treatment water. The research would be coordinated through the system with a capacity of 16.90 MGD.
that is not needed for agricultural irrigation is discharged Facility. Shingle Creek flows south from western Orlando Mid Florida Citrus Foundation (MFCF). The non-profit Reclaimed water is received from the City’s McLeod
into RIBs for recharge of the Floridan aquifer. WATER into Lake Tohopekaliga (Lake Toho), a lake at the Foundation board would be comprised of City, County,
CONSERV II, in its twelfth year of operation, is a success northern end of the Kissimmee chain of lakes known project grower, citrus industry, and contract operator
story. worldwide for its excellent bass fishing. Save Our Lake representatives. The research would be conducted by a 5- (continued)

7
Road Water Reclamation Facility and the County’s South nurseries. Very little increase in citrus acreage is expected these add to the bottom line when a grower looks at his for the right person or group to enter into a partnership
Regional Water Reclamation Facility. Daily flows have in the future. Almost all of the groves in the project profit/loss statement. with them and build the golf course and RIBs on lands
averaged 28.05 mgd for 1995, 1996, and the first 9 service area have already connected to the system and The project also sponsors an annual grower meeting to that had been purchased for expansion of the project.
months of 1997. Of the 28.05 mgd, an average of 13.51 expansions of the system for citrus are not planned at this present research results and information from the MFCF, Within the next few months an outstanding candidate
MGD has been used for agricultural irrigation with the time. keep the growers updated on the present status and future was selected.
remaining 14.54 MGD being discharged to the RIBs for While there are several advantages to citrus and plans for the project, and receive input, recommendations Through an innovative lease agreement between the
recharge of the Floridan aquifer. nursery irrigation, there is one major disadvantage. and comments from the growers. A monthly memo is sent City and County and world-renowned golf educator Phil
Research on the long-term effects of the irrigation of Providing water for freeze protection is very costly and out to all growers to keep them informed of current and Ritson, construction began on the 911-acre Orange
citrus with reclaimed water has produced data that is far requires a lot of coordination and manpower. Normal future issues on the project. Also included are the test County National Golf Center in October 1996. The 42-
greater than originally expected. It was originally antici- daily flows for agricultural irrigation average 13.51 MGD. results for the most recent 6-month period of the citrus acre driving range opened in March 1997 and play began
pated that irrigating citrus at the rate of 100 inches per Currently, flow requirements for freeze protection exceed irrigation reclaimed water constituent concentrations. on the 7,295-yard, 18 hold Panther Lake (south) Course
year would have severe detrimental effects that would 100,000 gpm (±150 MGD), or over 11 times the normal Thirty-five constituents, from arsenic to zinc, are in September 1997. The first 9 holes of the 10,625-yard
result in a heavily diseased tree or even death. Research flow rate. In order to be able to provide the needed flow, monitored on a weekly, monthly or quarterly basis, Crook Cat (north) Course opened in January 1998, with
has shown just the opposite. To date, citrus irrigated with the project has 25 16-inch wells that collectively produce depending on the individual constituent. the remaining 18 holes open in the fall of 1998. Other
100 inches of reclaimed water per year grew faster and ±80 MGD, 38 million gallons of storage capacity at the Area residents were also skeptical of accepting the facilities that are under construction include the Phil
produced more fruit than citrus irrigated with 16 inches or Distribution Center and the 2 water reclamation facilities, project in their area at first, even with the assurances Ritson Golf Institute (which includes a golf studio,
50 inches of reclaimed water per year. A small reduction and a 16-inch potable water line that supplies water to about health, safety, welfare, and protection of the student lodge, and classroom building), the clubhouse
in juice solids due to the high irrigation rate is offset by the pump station wet well at each of the water environment from the County and City. After 11 years of (which includes a restaurant, lounge, and pro shop), a 9-
the increase in fruit production. Increased weed growth is reclamation facilities to produce ±20 MGD from the operation with no major issues of concern, the residents hole executive teaching course call “The Cub,” and a 36-
associated with the high irrigation rate in younger groves, water reclamation facilities. Operations during freezing seem comfortable with the project and have accepted it as hole national championship putting course. Future
but is easily controlled with 1 additional application of conditions require project personnel to change from 8- part of their community. They are very concerned about development plans include additional championship golf
herbicide. This does not seem to be a problem in more hour shifts to 12-hour shifts in order to meet O&M the possibility of rapid growth in the area. They see the holes and luxury hotel accommodations.
mature groves due to the increased tree canopy size. demands during the critical period. There is also the need project as a protector of the rural atmosphere because The Phil Ritson Golf Institute will feature educational
Other research results to date include: (a) the benefits for constant communication between the water they know that development will not occur on lands programs for elementary, middle and high school students;
of irrigating with reclaimed water have been consistently reclamation facilities, the Distribution Center, the on- owned by the project for RIBs. The use of the conference beginning and intermediate golfers; young golfers wanting
demonstrated since 1987; (b) no significant problems duty project staff, and the agricultural customers who are room at the Distribution Center is open to the residents to pursue their golf career objectives; minority golfers;
have resulted from the use of reclaimed water for citrus operating their systems for freeze protection. Telephones, for meetings and functions of the local homeowner physically and mentally challenged golf students; women
irrigation; (c) tree condition, crop size, and soil and leaf cellular phones, and 2-way radios play an important role associations. The project is a member of the largest area golfers; career golfers who want to focus and fine-tune
mineral aspects of citrus trees irrigated with reclaimed in these critical communications. homeowners association, The Avalon Home & Property their skills; and recreational golfers. The Phil Ritson
water are improved over groves irrigated with well water; The demand for water during freezing conditions is the Owners Association. Representatives of the homeowner Education Foundation, a not-for-profit corporation,
and (d) some fertilizer elements required by citrus trees major factor in a recent decision by the City and County associations are invited to meetings and functions strives to advance learning opportunities in education
are present in adequate amounts in reclaimed water and not to pursue additional agricultural customers that sponsored by the project as a means of maintaining good focused on, but not limited to, golf and the golf industry.
can be eliminated from the fertilizer program. require water for freeze protection at this time. Costs for communications and a good relationship between the The Foundation supports programs which expand
In the beginning, it was anticipated that the project operating the system during freezing conditions average project and the area residents. educational opportunities for persons who might be
would build out to serve 12,000 to 15,000 acres of citrus. $15,000 to $20,000 per day. After several years of operation, project growers and otherwise held back in their life’s accomplishments
Devastating freezes in 1983, 1985 and 1989 put many Growers were skeptical at first about the concept of area residents recommended to the City and County that because of circumstances of challenges beyond their
local citrus growers out of business and forced others to irrigating with reclaimed water, even with the initial they look at other options for discharge of excess control.
move their operation to south Florida and a potentially assurance from Dr. Koo. Now, with 11 years of research reclaimed water. They felt there were options other than Reclaimed water is being supplied for irrigation of all
warmer climate. During the freeze of December 24-26, data to backup the benefits of irrigation with reclaimed RIBs that could get rid of the excess reclaimed water of the facilities. RIBs have been located throughout the
1989 temperatures as low as 18° Fahrenheit coupled with water, growers are singing its praises. The costs of while being more pleasing to the eye and increasing the site and landscaped so as not to be noticed by those
20 mph winds killed 60% of the citrus trees in Orange operating and maintaining a pumping system ($128.50/ overall property value in the area. The City and County playing golf. When completed, OCNGC will use an
County and 90% of the trees in Lake County. Groves acre/year) have been eliminated; the effort required to welcomed the idea and started exploring some options. average of 2 million gallons of reclaimed water daily for
served by WATER CONSERV II had a better survival secure, maintain, and renew a consumptive use permit for The one option that stood out above the others was a golf irrigation and an average of 1 million gallons of reclaimed
rate than other groves in the area. The availability of an irrigation well has been eliminated; there are no course that had RIBs interspersed among the fairways and water will be discharged daily to the RIBs for recharge of
reclaimed water for freeze protection played an important regulatory restrictions on the use of reclaimed water for hidden from view with landscaping. The golf course the Floridan aquifer.
role in the survival of these groves. citrus irrigation; reclaimed water is provided for freeze would use reclaimed water daily for irrigation purposes
Presently, the project provides reclaimed water for the protection; tree growth rate and crop size are increased; and the RIBs could be used for getting rid of the excess
irrigation of approximately 4,500 acres of citrus and and some fertilizer costs have been eliminated. All of reclaimed water. The City and County initiated a search

8
The Future value. Should the City and County charge the years and development pressure starting to increase, Conclusion
Orange County has become an urban county spurred agricultural customers for the reclaimed water after the selling the land for development is looking more and WATER CONSERV II is a success story. It is the
by tremendous growth in the tourism industry. What does initial 20 years or should the free reclaimed water clause more promising and profitable to the citrus grower. The premier reuse project for the City of Orlando and Orange
the future hold for WATER CONSERV II? As the City be continued? The agricultural customers want to see the OCNGC will be a major catalyst in this movement. County. Agricultural customers are singing the praises of
and County continue to increase in population, so will free reclaimed water continue, of course. However, there Horizon West, a grass-roots organization of property irrigation with reclaimed water. Area residents see the
the amount of reclaimed water that is produced. Both is income for the City and County should they decide to owners and business interests in West Orange County, was project as a friendly neighbor and potential protector of
have a “zero discharge” policy. start charging a nominal fee for the reclaimed water when formed in late 1993. The organization’s goal was to work the rural country atmosphere. Regulatory agencies are
The City and County are planning for the future of the 20-year contracts expire. with the Orange County Board of County Commissioners proud of their involvement in and support of the project.
WATER CONSERV II through their respective 5-year The three devastating freezes in the 1980s put many through a public-private partnership for the development/ The U of F researchers and county extension personnel
Capital Improvement Programs. The programs provide for citrus growers out of business and forced others to move approval of a new Land Use Classification that would are delighted with the research results to date on the
the systematic upgrade and expansion of the project to their operations to south Florida and a potentially warmer restore reasonable density and land use to ±45,000 acres effects of irrigation of citrus with reclaimed water.
handle increasing flows and customer use. Both water climate. Are there other agricultural crops that don’t in West Orange County. Miller-Sellen Associates was Through systematic and strategic planning, their 5-year
reclamation facilities are anticipating a 20% increase in require freeze protection, yet provide a satisfactory return hired as a consultant to the project for development of Capital Improvement Programs, and diversification of
average daily flows within the next 5 years. to the farmer? the new Land Use Classification. their customer base, the City and County are ensuring
WATER CONSERV II is and will remain the main Research has already shown that a wide variety of Following 18 months of development that included that WATER CONSERV II will remain their premier
focus for wet weather capacity for the City’s and County’s crops can be grown using reclaimed water for irrigation. many planning sessions and public meetings, the Orange reuse project and success story for many years to come.
reuse programs. To meet the future wet weather capacity U of F IFAS researchers and local county extension County Commission on June 5, 1995 adopted the Village
needs, the City and County are purchasing lands in the service agents believe that there is still room for Land Use Classification. The ±45,000 acres in West
project area that have high recharge capabilities for the specialized agriculture in an area that is converting to Orange County will be divided into a number of Manatee County
development of addition RIB sites. They are also looking residential/commercial/light industrial development. “villages,” each containing 1,000 to 3,000 acres. Each Medium Agricultural System
for other innovative reclaimed water systems and uses They also believe that several crops show promise to village will be subdivided into “neighborhoods” of ±500 10MGD
that will make the existing RIB sites more efficient. The replace citrus in the WATER CONSERV II service area acres each. There will be neighborhood centers and a
key to the success of the RIB systems is that the City and and provide a satisfactory return. These crops include village center in each village. The centers will be reserved Manatee County Reclaimed Water System and
County maintain ownership control for options and sand-grown sod, perennial peanut hay, forestry products for light commercial development, churches, schools, Manatee Agricultural Reuse Supply (MARS)
discharge capabilities. grown for energy production and paper, woody ornaments, parks, etc. The Village Concept is aimed at reducing the The Manatee County Reclaimed Water System was
The City and County realize the importance of and foliage plants. If marketed right, several deciduous reliance on the automobile, providing a greater variety of started in 1974 with one customer, the Manatee Fruit
diversification of their customer base. They are already fruit crops can be added to the list. Information on all of land uses closer to work, and creating opportunities for Company Farm. During the ensuing 24 years the system
looking for new customers that don’t require flows for these crops is available from the U of F. The key to the pedestrian, bike, and transit uses. has grown tremendously, and is now supplying more than
freeze protection. They are also looking for additional success of these crops is the availability of water for The Village Policies provide for permanent open 10 MGD to agricultural, residential, park, and golf course
large volume customers and customers that can use production, and reclaimed water is available from space, protected greenbelts and wildlife corridors, all of customers.
reclaimed water shortly after rain events. Diversification WATER CONSERV II. These crops also meet the City’s which create the Village Boundaries. There will be a The customers receive reclaimed water from three
of the customer base will increase reuse flows and and County’s criteria for not needing water for freeze Town Center located near the center of the area for major separate advanced secondary wastewater treatment plants
hopefully help reduce the need for additional RIB sites protection. The City and County are investigating the commercial and light industrial activity. Orange County located in the northern, the southeastern, and the
and wet weather capacity. possibility of leasing lands that they own in the project will provide all utilities and services for the area. southwestern parts of the county. These three regional
Orange County is planning to interconnect their service area for production of some of these crops. The A regional facility for the treatment of wastewater and plants will soon be interconnected into one reclaimed
regional water reclamation facilities to transfer flows lands were originally purchased for expansion. They the production of reclaimed water is planned by Orange water system capable of producing over 28 MGD.
between facilities. This feature will be of great help on would also retain the right to build RIBs on the land in County for the Horizon West area. Reclaimed water from This system has eliminated effluent discharge into
freeze nights in supplying growers with reclaimed water strategic locations for recharge of the Floridan aquifer this facility and the reclaimed water that comes to Sarasota Bay, and will reduce a substantial amount of
for freeze protection. The City already has this capability with excess reclaimed water. This combination would WATER CONSERV II from the McLeod Road and South agricultural groundwater pumping and the amount of
in place. allow for agricultural irrigation and expansion of the Regional water reclamation facilities will supply the potable water used for irrigation.
What to do after the 20-year contracts expire with existing RIB system on the same land. Horizon West area for irrigation of residential lawns and An important aspect of the master planning for the
respect to free reclaimed water for the agricultural West Orange County is the county’s last citrus strong- public greenspace, and commercial and light industrial MARS reflects priority for large agricultural properties
customers? That is a question that the City and County hold; it is also one of the last major undeveloped sections uses. Horizon West will become an integral part of the adjacent to transmission lines with extensions to serve
are beginning to think about. The 20-year contracts gave of the county. Residential and commercial development WATER CONSERV II system as its villages are developed major users in the vicinity of the transmission mains. All
the growers free reclaimed water for the 20-year period as seems inevitable. Citrus growers in West Orange County and the transition is made from agricultural irrigation to transmission piping has been sized to assure that the
an initial incentive to get them to sign up with the are already receiving inquiries and interest from investors residential, public, commercial, and light industrial reuse. reclaimed water customers’ demand is fulfilled, and
project. Now, in the 12th year of the contract, reclaimed and developers as they look for lands for future
water is viewed as an asset and a commodity that has a development. With low returns on citrus the last few (continued)

9
guarantee interconnection with regional reclaimed water customer service line.

sources. The area adjacent to the transmission lines has The City produces 100% reclaimed water from its
been determined to mainly include agricultural properties Water Reclamation Facility (WRF), which is permitted
with the potential for greatest demand. Potential for 8 million gallons per day (MGD). At present, the
customers have been identified and have expressed WRF produces an annual average of approximately 5
interest in changing their existing water source for MGD of reclaimed water. The City’s reclaimed water is a
reclaimed water. high quality public access resource that has undergone
Aquifer storage and recovery wells will play an filtration and disinfection to comply with Part III of
important role in the operation of the MARS system. Chapter 62-610 of the Florida Administrative Code
Within the hydraulic analysis, flow rates to and from the (F.A.C.).
ASR wells for the wastewater plants have been optimized Current reuse customers, which consist of industry,
to meet the design flow criteria. orange groves, and farming, utilize an average of
approximately 2.5 MGD. The remaining reclaimed water
is dechlorinated and then discharged into East Canal, and
City of Plant City flows through a series of creeks to the Hillsborough River.
Small Agricultural System Engineering and construction plans are underway to
3MGD supply additional customers to utilize the remaining
available reclaimed water.
Prior to 1997, the City of Plant City’s Wastewater Fifty percent of the funding for the City’s engineering
treatment plant operated as an activated sludge process in study and eligible portion's of construction for reclaimed
the extended aeration mode. The wastewater was water production was made available by a grant from the
discharged from retention ponds into Westside Canal, and Southwest Florida Water Management District. The
flowed through a series of creeks to Lake Thonotosassa. balance of funding was through Utility System Refunding
In 1993, the Southwest Florida Water Management Revenue Bonds as supported by the City rate payers.
District's (SWFWMD) Surface Water Improvement and
Management Program (SWIM) group investigated the
water quality of Lake Thonotosassa. The subsequent
Water Quality Based Effluent Limitation (WQBEL)
investigation of the lakes contributing stream led to
negotiations between the Florida Department of
Environmental Protection (DEP), the Hillsborough
County Environmental Protection Commission (EPC),
and the City of Plant City, regarding steps which could be
taken to improve the quality of Lake Thonotosassa. As a
result of these efforts, the City of Plant City entered into
an agreement with the EPC and DEP to discontinue
discharges into the lake by instituting a reclaimed water
reuse program by January 1, 1997.
Since early 1997, the City has been operating its new
Reclaimed Water Production Facility. The facility consists
of a retention pond transfer pumping station which is
located on the effluent end of the pond. The water then
passes through flow measurement equipment, screens to
remove any plants or fish that may have been pumped to
the facility, sand filters to remove suspended solids, high
level disinfection, storage, and a high service pumping
station which pumps the reclaimed water through a

10
Ordinances
City of St. Petersburg

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Inspection Information

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Supplemental Sources, Supply, Storage and Disposal
millions of gallons. This provides seasonal storage all injection wells in Florida under regulations contained be met by the recovered water prior to placement back
Reclaimed Water Aquifer Storage capabilities rather than storage designed to meet diurnal in Chapter 62-528, Florida Administrative Code (FAC). into the reuse system to ensure that reuse standards are
or daily variations in flow. Aboveground storage ponds Strict well construction and operating standards are maintained for public access reuse systems. Anyone
Recovery (ASR) in the Southwest and reservoirs commonly used for managing and storing enforced by the FDEP through its Underground Injection interested in developing a reclaimed water ASR program
Florida Water Management District excess reclaimed water face other limitations, such as Control (UIC) program. The initial Class V, Group 3 well should carefully consider the language contained in the
By Mark B. McNeal, P.G. CH2M HILL, Tampa, FL losses due to evaporation or water quality deterioration construction permit in Florida was granted for the proposed rule prior to implementation.
such as coliform and pathogens reintroduced into the Hillsborough County Northwest reclaimed water program
Introduction high quality reclaimed water. in November 1997. A permit for the Manatee County Water Quality Standards Prior to Injection
Reclaimed water ASR is a relatively new technology Southwest WWTP was issued shortly thereafter. Many The FDEP requires that all federal primary Drinking
designed to store large volumes of high quality, treated Suitable Storage Zone Selection other reuse utilities, such as the Englewood Water Water Standards (DWSs) be maintained at all times in
wastewater to supplement reuse systems during high With reclaimed water ASR systems, which are District, the City of St. Petersburg, and Sarasota County, water recharging a Class V, Group 3 injection well. This is
demand periods or other times when the reuse system typically planned for development in brackish water are in various stages of Class V, Group 3 permitting. regardless of naturally occurring concentrations of these
resources are limited. Reuse utilities typically make a aquifers, the primary consideration is to ensure that Following operational testing of the reclaimed water ASR parameters in the storage zone. In addition, state primary
substantial investment in developing their treatment, dissolved solids concentrations are maintained at well, FDEP will also require that the utility obtain a Class and secondary DWSs must be maintained in the
transmission, and distribution systems to reliably provide acceptable levels in the recovered water. While potable V, Group 3 injection well operating permit prior to reclaimed water or, as a minimum, must at least be better
a high quality product to their reuse customers. Without ASR systems are typically limited to recovery water from placing the well in service. than the ambient groundwater concentrations. If these
seasonal storage of excess reclaimed water or other the ASR well until total dissolved solids (TDS) The ASR well also requires a well construction permit standards cannot be reliably maintained in the reclaimed
supplemental reuse supplies, most reuse utilities find they approaches 500 mg/L, reclaimed water ASR wells which and a water use permit (WUP) from the local water water, relief mechanisms may be required prior to
are “built-out” at approximately 50 to 60 percent of their are typically designed around irrigation uses may allow management district prior to operating the well. The injection. This may include an aquifer exemption or
total annual reclaimed water supply. Many utilities extended recovery of this resource to water quality water management district will typically work with the limited aquifer exemption if certain federal primary
planning to implement ASR, however, are relying on this approaching 1,500 mg/L. This generally allows reuse utility to allow cyclical testing of the well to DWSs cannot be met, or a Water Quality Criteria
technology to allow them to reuse up to 100 percent of development of the reclaimed water ASR systems in more demonstrate that a functional storage system exists prior Exemption (WQCE) is selected, state standards cannot be
the total annual reclaimed water supplies treated at their brackish to saline aquifers, while not significantly to addressing all WUP issues for a supply well. Since only met.
water reclamation facilities. affecting recoverability of the stored water. Conversely, it the water stored would typically be recovered from the To demonstrate that these standards are reliably
West-central Florida and Southwest Florida are may allow full recoverability of a usable resource earlier reclaimed water ASR well, and since the wells would only achieved in the reclaimed water, FDEP will require a
drought-sensitive, and water resource issues are into the ASR program. be pumped for relatively short periods of time when the comprehensive reclaimed water characterization program,
paramount. For this reason, many of the reuse practices The ideal storage zone is typically a moderately reuse system supplies are stressed, WUPs should be such as bi-monthly sampling and analysis of the reclaimed
have originated in this portion of the state. In addition, permeable unit located between two hydrogeologic units considerably more easily obtained than conventional water for state/federal DWSs for at least one year to
many surface water discharges of reclaimed water are of lower permeability. Adequate confinement should exist water supply wells which utilize a high quality fresh establish seasonal variations that can be anticipated in
under significant scrutiny because of the nutrient loading to limit the movement of the reclaimed water stored into groundwater for this supplemental source. the reclaimed water quality. Sampling for pathogens such
or other imbalances they may present to Florida’s sensitive overlying zones which may be utilized for potable water Other local permits may also be required to make the as Cryptosporidium and Giardia Lamblia is also typically
marine and estuary ecosystems. Deep well injection, an purposes. A degree of hydraulic control of the recharge reclaimed water ASR system fully operational. required. Finally, other domestic wastewater parameters
alternative disposal practice, is also becoming more fluids is typically required to provide adequate Chapter 62-610, FAC, is currently under revision. such as nutrient data will need to be fully characterized
difficult to permit and operate in the state. The regulatory recoverability of the reclaimed water. In general, the Much of the proposed language directly relates to rules and assessed prior to obtaining FDEP permission to test
agencies and environmental groups in Florida generally tighter the confinement surrounding the storage zone the governing development and operation of reclaimed water the ASR well.
perceive reclaimed water reuse as the most favorable better the chance of recovering a significant portion of ASR systems. This rule is generally very favorable for the
wastewater effluent management practice. The reclaimed the water stored. Other aquifer characteristics such as development of reclaimed water ASR programs, and the Competing Groundwater Users
water ASR technology will be relied upon in this part of transmissivity and storativity also influence the well’s intent of the proposed rule revisions was to facilitate the A well inventory is required within the Area of
Florida to minimize or eliminate wet weather discharges ability to successfully store and recover a suitable water advancement of this technology. For example, the Review prior to issuance of a well construction permit.
and overcome dry season reclaimed water shortfalls, resource. proposed rule provides a “zone of recharge” in selected This study typically identifies most legal competing
thereby optimizing the use of this valuable commodity. aquifers which waives secondary drinking water standards groundwater users in the area that may either impact
ASR wells provide an excellent opportunity to store Permitting at the ASR wellhead. This should waive some of the more recoverability of the recharge water or may be adversely
significant volumes of reclaimed water seasonally. While Reclaimed water ASR wells are permitted by the aesthetic drinking water parameters, such as color and impacted due to reclaimed water ASR operations. Of
the largest of the aboveground storage tanks will typically Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) odor, as permitted parameters in the recharge water. most concern are true domestic wells (wells that supply
store 5 million gallons to possibly 10 million gallons of as Class V, Group 3 injection wells. The FDEP regulates Other proposed language includes requirements that must (continued)
water, a typical ASR well is capable of storing hundreds of
101
water inside the homes) or wells completed to similar over time. While this will take additional time (1 to 2 Aquifer Storage and Recovery (ASR)
depths as the ASR well. Many typical water supply wells, years), the well should be functional during this period, Cost: 1 MGD – $700,000 City of St. Petersburg
such as irrigation or agricultural wells, can coexist with allowing the reuse utility to coordinate cycle testing Pros: Extremely large capacity; seasonal storage; no
the reclaimed water program even if reclaimed water around supply and demand and allow the recovered water biological growth; a very small land requirement; Storage Issues
migrates to such wells. Since most reclaimed water ASR to be put to beneficial use. reduction in THM levels. The City’s reclaimed water system is supported by four
programs are being implemented in brackish to saline Cons: Limits on appropriate siting; high Cl dissipation; water reclamation facilities. Each plant has limited
aquifer systems, competing groundwater use is often Other Considerations stringent permitting requirements. storage capacity. The plants have a combined treatment
limited because native water quality of these aquifers is Further development of reclaimed water ASR wells Note: Cost for ASR is per MGD, all others per MG. capacity of 68.4 mgd and a reclaimed water storage
not fit for most applications. Careful consideration of may offer other environmental benefits. For example, capacity of 25 mgd. Each plant is designed with an
existing well owners is key to successfully locating the saltwater intrusion barriers may be established to retard alternative method of disposal to deal with unused
initial reclaimed water ASR well. movement of saline groundwater into heavily stressed reclaimed and reject waters through deep well injection.
groundwater withdrawal areas. As the reclaimed water St. Petersburg’s endeavor to expand its reclaimed water
Reclaimed Water ASR Program Costs ASR technology is further advanced, it is believed that system and maximize the serviceable customer base
Many factors influence the cost of a reclaimed water additional environmental benefits will be realized by reuse presents a number of challenges. The greatest of these
ASR program. The quality of the reclaimed water and utilities committed to full use of their valuable resource. challenges is ensuring adequate product availability 365
level of characterization required, level of permitting days a year. To accomplish this goal, the City is exploring
requirements and necessary relief mechanisms, distance of Reclaimed Water Storage Options a number of alternative approaches to deal with product
optimum ASR site from reuse system, depth of storage issue. The programs include educating customers in
interval and native water quality, and the capacity of the Elevated Storage Tanks proper landscape management techniques, resource
initial ASR well are a few of the factors influencing these Cost: per 1 MG – $950,000 management through metering and increased storage
costs. For planning purposes, total costs to implement the Pros: May utilize existing tank’s gravity pressure; low Cl capabilities via above ground and ASR.
initial reclaimed water ASR pilot well and associated dissipation; low biological growth; small land Aboveground storage poses a number of challenges as
monitoring well network have typically ranged from requirement; minimal permitting requirements St. Petersburg is a well-established community with
$700,000 to approximately $1,000,000 for a 1 to 2 MGD Cons: Generally small capacity, up to 3 MG; expensive to minimal undeveloped acreage available. To deal with this
ASR system. The majority of these costs are associated construct; possible limits on construction and siting. issue, St. Petersburg is aggressively pursuing the option of
with infrastructure construction, such as ASR well Suggestions: Add Cl injection point; can be painted to ASR. It is the consensus of the City that if ASR becomes
installation, piping, and wellhead completions. These advertise system. a viable option for the City, it could result in a greater
costs also include the initial few years of operational number of serviceable customers. This option in concert
(cycle) testing activities. Following cycle testing, the goal Ground Storage Tanks with conservation and other alternatives could carry us
should be to have a fully permitted and functional ASR Cost: per 1 MG – $150,000 to $250,000 well beyond the current projected number of 17,000
well that is capable of storing and recovering hundreds of Pros: Capacities up to 20 MG; low Cl dissipation; little customers. The ASR program would allow the utility to
millions of gallons of high quality reuse water. biological growth; small land requirement; minimal augment aboveground storage during peak demand
Conservatively assuming that the initial program costs permitting requirements periods by storing high quality reclaimed water during low
$1 million to implement and that an annual storage Cons: Expensive to construct; possible limits on demand and wet weather conditions.
capacity of 200 million gallons is available, capital costs construction and siting.
for this method of storage are estimated at less than a Suggestions: Add Cl injections point, paint and
penny per gallon of annual storage. ASR is a very cost landscape to be aesthetically pleasing.
effective method of storage for large storage volumes.
Lined Open Storage Pond Largo Sparkling Water System
Reclaimed Water ASR Program Schedule Cost: 1 MG – $35,000 to $100,000 Supply, Storage and Disposal Options
The time required to implement the initial ASR Pros: Very large capacity; less expensive to construct; can
program can range from 18 to 24 months. This time be an aesthetic enhancement; may utilize storm water. The City of Largo owns and operates one 18 MGD
includes design, permitting, reclaimed water Cons: High Cl dissipation; high biological growth; large Advanced Wastewater Treatment Facility. This facility
characterization, and construction of the facilities. Cycle land requirement; evaporation losses; intake and system treats approximately 12 MGD of wastewater received
testing will be required following installation of the ASR clogging potential; moderate permitting requirements. from a 40 square mile service area. The facility includes
facilities to demonstrate that the well is functioning as Suggestions: Add filter and Cl injection point at intake three onsite A2O activated sludge plants, Tetra
designed and to evaluate quality of the recovered water structure; construct in a natural shape.

102
denitrification filters, shallow bed sand filters, two capacity of over 300,000,000 gallons. The storage consists The Southeast Regional Plant has 2.9 MGD average Stringent regulations have made it necessary for the
chlorine contact chambers, aerobic digesters and a “state of holding ponds at golf courses, plant sites, and remote daily flow and storage facilities consisting of an 86 acre city to find some other ways of disposing of its treated
of the art” sludge pelletizing factory. ponds owned by Sarasota County. Our water reclamation lake, a 63 acre lake and a 16 acre pond. The total storage wastewater. The city hired Smith & Gillespie to do a
The Sparkling Water System starts at the City’s 10 facilities produce an average of 5.8 million gallons per day capacity is 305 million gallons. reuse study which has brought us to where we are now.
MG reclaimed water ground storage tank and pump (MGD). Our customer base is broad and varied, but as The Southwest Regional Plant has 14.5 MGD average The construction on the west side of our property is our
station adjacent to the wastewater treatment facility. with other reuse systems, it is difficult to meet the daily flow and storage facilities consisting of a 47 acre new Reclaimed Water Production Facility. This facility
This CROM pre-stressed tank is the largest single seasonal fluctuations in supply and demand. To overcome lake, a 25 acre lake, and a 1.4 million gallon ground consists of a pond transfer pumping station which is
reclaimed water tank of its kind in Florida. Reclaimed the supply and demand factor, we have obtained an storage tank. The total storage capacity is 141.4 million located on the effluent end of the pond. The water will
water pressure to the system is provided by the fully aquifer, storage and recovery (ASR) feasibility study for gallons. pass through flow measurement equipment, screens to
automated pump station through four, 400 horsepower the north county area and are performing the required Three new 1 MGD aquifer storage and recovery remove any plants or fish that may be pumped to the
pumps. These pumps provide water to customers as well tests on our effluent to apply for a permit to construct a (ASR) wells are planned for this plant. These planned facility, sand filters to remove suspended solids, high level
as filling the City’s other 5 MG and 3 MG pre-stressed test well in 12 months. The overall plan in the north wells will have a combined estimated storage capacity of disenfection, storage, and a high service pumping station
ground storage and pumping facilities which are located county service area is to have three 1.0 MGD ASR wells. 458 million gallons. which will pump the reclaimed water north.
out in the service areas. The 5 MG and 3 MG facilities In the south county area, we are proposing an additional The Southwest Regional Plant also has a 15 MGD We presently have three customers signed up for reuse
each provide water pressure via three, 250 horse power three 1.0 MGD ASR wells and plan to permit the first deep well disposal system currently used to dispose of for a total of 2.395 MGD. They are:
pumps. The entire system is remotely monitored and test well this year. approximately 9.5 MGD. - CF Industries,
controlled using a radio frequency telemetry system and We also have deep injection wells in both the north Industrial Reuse, 2.05 MGD
Wonderware software. and south county service areas, which we are in the (water to be used for cooling towers)
The City of Largo Advanced Wastewater Treatment process of permitting to allow the disposal of effluent - Lloyd & Rings Nursery,
Facility has a surface water discharge permit. The tertiary during extreme wet weather. Agricultural Reuse, 0.32 MGD
treated effluent not used by the Sparkling Water System is In addition to ASR, we are looking at the possibility of
City of Plant City Water Reclamation (water to be used for irrigation system)
discharged into a chain of freshwater lakes in the Feather mixing stormwater with reclaimed water during peak Facility Disposal - Fred Johnson,
Sound area. These lakes eventually discharge into Tampa demand periods to meet the needs of our customers. We Agricultural Reuse, 0.025 MGD
Bay. The City is interested in reusing 100% of its effluent. have contracted work to a consultant to determine the The wastewater treatment plant is an 8.0 MGD (water used for orange grove irrigation)
To meet the seasonal fluctuations in supply and demand, feasibility of mixing reuse with stormwater as a activated sludge process operating in the extended
it will be investigating the feasibility of Reclaimed Water supplemental source, but are only in the introductory aeration mode. Presently the treated wasewater discharges The construction in the laboratory area is a new
Aquifer Storage and Recovery. stages of this project. from the pond into Westside Canal which winds its way headworks facility. This will consist of screening, flow
through a series of creeks until it reaches Lake measurement, grit removal, a pumping station, and an
Thonotosassa. odor control system.
CITY OF PLANT CITY’S NEW RECLAIMED WATER PRODUCTION FACILITY

Sarasota County’s Manatee County Reclaimed Water
Reclaimed Water System Storage and Disposal
Sarasota County’s reuse system consists of six water The Manatee County Reclaimed Water System relies
reclamation facilities, of which two are interconnected. primarily upon storage ponds (lakes) for diurnal and
By the end of FY00, four of the facilities in the north seasonal storage of reclaimed water. There are three
county area will be interconnected and will ultimately tie regional wastewater treatment plants (North, Southeast,
in with the City of Sarasota’s reuse system. In the south Southwest) each with its own storage facilities currently
county service area, we are in the process of extending a supplying the system.
transmission main to interconnect the remaining two The North Regional Plant has 2.5 MGD average daily
facilities and by the end of FY02, the south county system flow and storage facilities consisting of a 106 acre lake, a
will be tied in with the City of Venice’s existing reuse 14 acre pond and two 750,000 gallon ground storage
system. When completed, this regional network will allow tanks. The total storage capacity is 156.5 million gallons.
us to deliver reclaimed water where it is most in demand Three new 1 MGD aquifer storage and recovery
during dry weather and, conversely, to store or dispose of (ASR) wells are planned for this plant. These planned
it during wet weather. wells will have a combined estimated storage capacity of
The overall system, at build out, will have a storage 458 million gallons.

103
System Financing
The document package must be submitted to the reimbursing the property owner for the cost of
City of St. Petersburg Funding Reclaimed Water Office prior to connection and/or Largo Sparkling Water System installation of the transmission line, except for issuing
construction of an extension to serve the property or a credit for water used against the cost of installation
properties.
Financing of the line as stated in B above.
Program Funding and Capital Recovery
In the 1970s, the City of St. Petersburg petitioned The City funds the reclaimed water extensions
EPA for funding to upgrade the four wastewater treatment through its annual CIP program and recovers these funds Largo has taken a multifaceted approach to financing The credit offset method was instrumental during the
facilities and construct a distribution network to intertie through the reclaimed water voluntary assessment its “Sparkling Water System.” There are five sources of early years of Largo’s system. This “win-win” method
these facilities. Additional funding was obtained in the program. Based on the cost of the project, the customers funds than Largo has used during past expansions. brought reclaimed water to customers that did not have
early 1980s to extend the reclaimed water system into assessment term may range from three years, which is the access to reclaimed water mains in Largo’s system with
most common practice, to as much as ten years at eight Largo Sewer Fund little or no real cost to the City. In addition, the lines are
four predominately residential areas adjacent to Tampa
Bay and Boca Ciega Bay. These areas were identified as percent simple interest. Capital costs for reclaimed water The Largo sewer system is an enterprise fund. All sized to serve other customers along the pipeline. These
critical water quality areas. Since the mid 1980s the City vary from $250 to $1,500 per residential site. For sewer charges and fees collected go into the operation, other customers pay the current reclaimed water rates.
has, through its annual capital improvement program commercial facilities the capital cost for reclaimed water maintenance and expansion of the sewer system,
(CIP), provided funding in an ongoing effort to continue service may range from $500 to as much as $80,000. In including the advanced wastewater treatment facility, Local Option Sales Tax
the expansion of the reclaimed water system. addition to the capital investment we have connection sludge pelletizing factory and the “Sparkling Water” Pinellas County voters approved a one cent tax on
To request service the property owner or neighborhood fees and monthly service charges. reclaimed water program. goods and services for a ten year period. This money is
shall petition the Public Utilities Division. This petition All services 2 inches and larger will be billed at actual used for major infrastructure improvements within the
cost. All backflow devices larger than 1 inch will be Southwest Florida Water Management District county. The City of Largo uses part of its portion of the
shall represent an expression of interest in obtaining
billed at actual cost. (SWFWMD) Cooperative Funding tax revenue to expand the “Sparkling Water” distribution
reclaimed water service. The City shall provide cost
estimates, information on connection fees and monthly Reclaimed water is an unmetered service and is billed The Southwest Florida Water Management District system into neighborhoods.
service charges to the petitioning body. If the estimated on a flat rate of $10.36 per month for the first acre or less actively supports water conservation and development of
cost is agreeable to the petitioning body, each property and $5.92 for each additional acre or part thereof. All alternative water sources. This support is both technical Reclaimed Water Charges and Fees
owner shall execute a Voluntary Lien Agreement and an services outside the City limits are subject to a surcharge and financial. The SWFWMD staff assist utilities in The residential rate for 1 acre or less is $7.00 per
Application for Reclaimed Water Restricted Use Permit. of twenty-five percent (25%). A charge of $25 will be analyzing and developing the programs. The SWFWMD month. The commercial rate is 20 cents per 1,000 gallons.
In the case of a joint effort to obtain reclaimed water charged for all reclaimed water inspections. basin boards and Governing Board grant millions of Largo reclaimed water revenue is used to help offset
service, such as a neighborhood or subdivision, the City An approved Hose Connection Assembly can also be dollars to help utilities design and build alternative water operation and maintenance costs. The rates and charges
requires that no less than 30 percent of the petitioning purchased from the City for a total of $132. This includes systems, including Largo’s reclaimed water system. are set to encourage participation and not to generate
body execute the Voluntary Lien Agreement and the locking hose box, 50 feet of hose, key and the $25 revenue.
inspection fee. Additional hose may be purchased at 78 Credit Offset Method
Application for Reclaimed Water Restricted Use Permit.
cents a foot. The extension of reclaimed water service to a
commercial or industrial customer located in an area
City of St. Petersburg Connection Fee Table
where service is not available, may be provided by the Sarasota County’s
credit offset method. This method consists of the Reclaimed Water System Financing
Reclaimed Water Flow Tapping Portable Meter Size Installation Total
following:
Service Tap Rating Fee Backflow Preventor Charge Cost
A. The property owner shall construct, at his own Sarasota County funds its reclaimed water projects
expense, an extension of the reclaimed through rates. In addition, the Southwest Florida Water
3/4" 15-25 gpm $180.00 + 3/4" Backflow $115.00 $ 320.00
water system to transport the water to his property. Management District (SWFWMD) supports water
1" 40-50 gpm $230.00 + 1" Backflow $160.00 $ 370.00
B. The City may provide a credit for water used against conservation and the use of alternative water sources
1“ 70-80 gpm $390.00 + 1“ Backflow $680.00 $1070.00
the cost of installation of the transmission system. through cooperative funding. This funding is applied for
C. Once the credit for the cost of installation of the each year and is basically a “matching funds” effort.
transmission system is issued, ownership of the Applicants apply and, if accepted, the total cost of the
transmission line will revert to the city. After the project is funded by the applicant, subject to reimburse-
credit for the cost of installation of the transmission ment from SWFWMD up to a pre-determined amount,
line is exhausted, the customer will be billed for the usually 50% of the project.
actual amount of water used at the prevailing rate.
D. At no time shall the City be responsible for
104
Another initiative offered by SWFWMD is the New Projects to be considered for cooperative funding conservation and water quality.
Water Source Initiative (NWSI) program. This is similar City of Plant City Reclaimed assistance are submitted to the District in December of • Applications for projects that are in more than one
to the cooperative funding program. If a project is each year and follow a timeline through to approval or District should be submitted simultaneously to each
considered regional, whereby two separate entities are
Wastewater Facilities Financing denial by the individual basin boards in August when they District. Eligibility and ranking of such projects will be
involved, it may qualify as a NWSI project. NWSI funds adopt their budgets. The District then enters into a handled in the same manner as projects wholly within
Engineering and construction costs for Plant City’s new
are also a “matching funds” effort, which is funded 25% by contractual agreement with the cooperator and the project this District. Alternative source project proposals will
reuse processing facility were approximately $15 million.
the basin board and 25% by the Governing Board. The commences providing the cooperator has budgeted its include coordinated ranking by each District’s Grants
The Southwest Florida Water Management District
application process is identical to the cooperative funding share of the project cost. The Cooperative Funding Advisory Committee.
approved and paid $4 million of the total in support of the
process. Program is important because: • Please contact your local Governmental Affairs
water conservation aspects of the program. The remaining
The Board of County Commissioners reviews reclaimed 1) Projects are recommended by the local governments Coordinator for Cooperative Funding Program materials
$11 million was financed through a City water/sewer
water rates every two years. Current rates are $0.10 per and further establish relationships between them and or additional funding information and assistance.
revenue bond issue.
1,000 gallons for all customers. In addition, there are no the District
impact fees associated with tying into the reuse system. 2) It allows local projects to be completed with funding The Governmental Affairs Coordinators and their
assistance afforded by the individual basin boards respective service areas are:
Southwest Florida Water Management 3) Local basin board tax dollars help pay for and
Rand R. Baldwin
Funding Reclaimed Water Distribution District Cooperative Funding Program implement local projects
Hillsborough, Pinellas and Pasco
4) It helps protect the water resource
in Manatee County History Tampa Service Office
7601 Highway 301 North
The eight basin boards are the Alafia River,
Manatee County operates its Reclaimed Water Within the District’s 16 county jurisdictional area there Tampa, Florida 33637-6759
Hillsborough River, Northwest Hillsborough, Coastal
Distribution System as a component part of a combined are eight basin boards. The boundaries are delineated along Phone: (813) 985-7481
Rivers, Pinellas-Anclote River, Withlacoochee River,
Public Utility which includes Water, Wastewater, Storm watershed rather than political lines. Each of the basins Fax: (813) 987-6726
Peace River, and Manasota. The District also has, by state
Water, Landfill and Reclaimed Water. Manatee County’s has ad valorem taxing authority up to 0.5 mil. A major Suncom: 578-2070
statute, an Alternative Supply Grants Advisory
utility system operates as a self-supporting enterprise fund portion of the monies that are generated each year are Jimmy A. Brooks
Committee, which reviews and ranks the alternative water
and receives no supplementary general revenue funds from dedicated to assisting local governments and counties Citrus, Hernando, Lake, Levy, Marion and Sumter
supply projects that have been submitted for funding
the County. While funds for Landfill and Storm Water are cooperatively fund water resource-related projects that Lecanto Service Office
consideration to the individual basin boards.
generally not intermingled with the Water/Wastewater/ help implement the District’s mission, goals and strategic 3600 West Sovereign Path, Suite 226
Reclaimed Utility, they are legally combined. objectives. To guide the expenditures of these funds, the Lecanto, Florida 34461-8070
Cooperative Funding Program
Funding for Utility Capital Projects (including boards develop basin plans which identify their local water Phone: (352) 527-8131
General Project Proposal Guidelines
expansion of the reclaimed distribution system) comes and natural resource management issues and prioritizes Fax: (352) 527-8309
from surplus funds of the Utility and may include them. This is what drives their annual budget process and Suncom: 667-3271
The following information is required for all project
borrowing from a variety of sources. All projects compete allows for local governments and counties to submit proposals for potential Southwest Florida Water Joanne L. McClellan
for funding through the annual Capital Improvement projects for cooperative funding consideration. The Management District Basin Board funding for each fiscal Hardee, Highlands and Polk
Program process, with the highest priority projects gaining cooperative funding program has historically been a 50/50 year (beginning October 1 ): Bartow Service Office
funding as approved by the Board of County cost share on projects approved by the basins. The projects • Funding proposals must follow the outline of the 170 Century Boulevard
Commissioners. that are submitted for funding consideration are evaluated appropriate informational guideline. If a particular section Bartow, Florida 33830-7700
Operation of the Reclaimed System is accomplished on the following criteria: is considered non-applicable, please indicate why. Phone: (941) 534-1448
largely as a part of existing sections’ regular duties. Meters • Consistency with basin priorities • Four copies of each project proposal must be Fax: (941) 534-7058
are read by regular meter-reading personnel, pressure is • Regional or multi-governmental in scope accompanied by an application form. Suncom: 572-6200
maintained by wastewater plant pumps, new customers • Consistency with local comprehensive plan • Proposals must be submitted to the District by 5 p.m.
sign up and are schooled as a regular function of customer • Effect on District programs and staffing levels Steven A. Minnis
of the first Friday of December, each year. A priority
service. Line maintenance is handled by the regular water • Past performance of the applicant and ability to Charlotte, DeSoto, Manatee and Sarasota
ranking is required if more than one project is
distribution crew. Non-CIP line extensions are constructed implement Venice Service Office
submitted. Any proposal received after that date will
by an in-house construction crew. Both in-house crews are • Consistency with District’s Water Management Plan 115 Corporation Way
be ineligible for funding.
permitted to charge time and materials to the Reclaimed and the Needs and Sources study (four resource-based Venice, Florida 34292-3524
• Project informational guidelines are available for aerial
Water cost center. areas of responsibility are Water Supply, Flood Phone: (941) 486-1212
mapping/GIS, alternative source, communications,
Protection, Water Quality and Natural Systems) groundwater, stormwater/flood control, surface water Fax: (941) 486-2048
• Compliance with District Regulatory Programs improvement and management (SWIM), water Suncom: 526-6528 (continued on next page)

105
Alternative Source Projects Informational Guidelines be achieved by the project. Calculate total project cost for contact person who will be responsible for maintaining Policy, District Needs and Sources Study, appropriate
each 1000 gallons of water produced. Amortize the cost at communication with District staff. Water Use Caution Area Management Plan, local
1. Type of Project: 8% interest over the life-expectancy of the project and Include name, title, mailing address and telephone government comprehensive plan or other appropriate
State the nature of the project (i.e., horizontal surficial include an explanation of the formula(s) used to arrive at number for each individual cited. strategic or master planning documents. Please describe
well system, reuse of reclaimed water, reuse of stormwater, the $/1000 gallons. Explain the benefits of the program how the proposed project is consistent with the basin’s
11. Additional Information:
surface water, aquifer storage and recovery, membrane and how the results will be evaluated. five-year conservation plan and, if applicable, the
Any other information considered relevant to the
technology, seawater desalination, other). Reclaimed water projects will require documentation Northern Tampa Bay Partnership Plan.
project should be included. The applicant may be asked to
confirming that at least 25% of existing or planned
2. Project Objective: provide documentation verifying funds have been 5. Measurable Benefits:
potable water use has been offset by the project. List
State the project objective(s) in a clear and concise budgeted for the applicant’s portion of the project. Identify all measurable benefits expected to be
potential significant long-term benefits. If located in a
manner. Describe the specific nature of the water resource achieved by the project. Water savings should be stated in
Water Use Caution Area, identify how the project assists
problem to be addressed by the proposed project and how terms of gallons per day per unit (i.e., home or acre) and
in meeting the appropriate Water Use Caution Area
the project will remedy the problem. Water Conservation Projects gallons per day for the entire project. Economic benefits
Management Plan.
Informational Guidelines should be stated in terms of cost benefit and payback
3. Project Description:
6. Deliverables: period, if applicable. Calculate total project cost for each
Provide a detailed description of the project. At a
List and describe the project deliverables (i.e., 1. Type of Project: 1000 gallons of water produced or saved by the project.
minimum, the description must include the following, if
documents, signage, constructed facilities, etc.). State the nature of the project (i.e., plumbing retrofit, Amortize the cost at 8% interest over the life-expectancy
appropriate: 1) general location map; 2) detailed project
toilet rebate, Xeriscape™, irrigation efficiency, etc.), and of the project, and include an explanation of the
area map; 3) construction details; 4) quantity of water 7. Project Costs:
the program targets (i.e., residential, commercial, formula(s) used to arrive at the $/1000 gallons. Payback
produced by the project; 5) ground and/or surface water The total project cost must be clearly identified.
industrial, multi-family, recreational, etc.). should be calculated by dividing the value of the gallons
withdrawal quantities to be offset; 6) percentage of Project cost should be estimated by task categories such as
saved each year by the total cost of the project. List any
permitted quantities to be offset; 7) user type to be offset design, transmission line materials, construction of pump 2. Project Objective:
other potentially significant long-term benefits. If located
(i.e., agricultural, public supply, recreation, mining, and/ station or storage, etc. The District does not typically State the project objective(s) in a clear and concise
in a Water Use Caution Area, identify how the project
or industrial); 8) all associated water use permit numbers consider staff time or in-kind services as part of the manner. Describe the specific nature of the water
assists in meeting the appropriate Water Use Caution
and their permitted quantities; 9) all associated surface applicant’s matching funds. Upon approval of a funding resource problem to be addressed by the proposed project
Area Management Plan. Also describe how the Basin
water management permit numbers (including any request, the District will generally fund only up to 50 and how the project will remedy the problem.
Board’s contribution to the project will be publicized.
exemptions and Florida Department of Environmental percent of the total project cost.
3. Project Description:
Protection permit numbers); 10) location of wet weather A detailed accounting of the amount and source of the 6. Deliverables:
Provide a detailed description of the project. For
management systems; 11) estimate of other potential users matching funds must also be provided. List and describe the project deliverables (i.e.,
indoor water conservation proposals, if applicable,
in area; 12) customer distribution rate(s); 13) location documents, kits, reports, data, analysis, etc.).
8. Completion Schedule: include: 1) general location map; 2) number of homes
relative to the Water Use Caution Areas; 14) type of
Provide a scope of work with key tasks to be involved; 3) number of people involved; 4) quantities 7. Project Costs:
alternative supply facility and its capacity; and 15) how
completed. Include a general time frame for the beginning expected to be saved; 5) evaluation measures; 6) project The total project cost must be clearly identified.
project fits into the Basin Board Plan.
of the project, completion schedule of key tasks, and documentation methods; and 7) study area controls; and Project cost should be estimated by task categories such as
4. Demonstration of Need: projected date for completion. Dates may be given in 8) follow-up methodologies such as retention studies. purchase of retrofit kits, installation of irrigation system,
Describe the specific nature of how the project will: terms of weeks after notice to proceed in lieu of actual For outdoor conservation proposals, if applicable, study evaluation, etc. The District does not typically
(a) optimize the management of water and water-related calendar dates. Please note that District funds for include: 1) number of units (residential, commercial, etc.) consider staff time or in-kind services as part of the
resources; (b) meet the Basin Board’s priorities; (c) utilize approved proposals are not available until contracts are involved; 2) acreage and land use involved; 3) quantities applicant’s matching funds. Upon approval of a funding
existing District resources or build upon District expertise executed, typically after October 1st. expected to be saved; 4) evaluation measures; 5) irrigation request, the District will generally fund only up to 50
or experience. efficiencies to be achieved; 6) description of irrigation percent of the total project cost. A detailed accounting
9. Implementation:
Additionally, cite supporting documentation as found system; 7) type of crop; and 8) local water conservation (i.e. budget year, amounts secured from other funding
Provide a plan and period of implementation. Only
in the appropriate Basin Board Basin Plan, State Water ordinance. sources by name) of the amount and source of the
projects that can be directly implemented by the
Use Policy, District Needs and Sources Study, appropriate matching funds must also be provided.
applicant, or its contracted agent, will be considered for 4. Demonstration of Need:
Water Use Caution Area Management Plan, local
funding assistance. Please note that the District will Describe the specific nature of how the project will: 8. Completion Schedule:
government comprehensive plan or other appropriate
require the applicant, through an inter-local agreement, (a) provide water conserving benefits local and/or Provide a scope of work with key tasks to be
strategic or master planning documents.
to carry out the project within a specified period. regional; (b) meet the Basin Board’s priorities; (c) utilize completed. Include a general time frame for the beginning
existing District resources or build upon District expertise of the project, completion schedule of key tasks, and
5. Measurable Benefits:
10. Key Personnel: and experience or enhance District programs. projected date for completion. Dates may be given in
Identify all measurable water savings and/or financial
List all key personnel to be involved, all persons Additionally, cite supporting documentation as found in
benefits (both local & regional if applicable) expected to
authorized to represent the applicant and a primary the appropriate Basin Board Basin Plan, State Water Use
106
terms of weeks after notice to proceed in lieu of actual
calendar dates. Please note that District funds for
approved proposals are not available until contracts are Southwest Florida Water Management District
executed, typically after October 1st.
Cooperative Funding Program Application
9. Implementation:
Provide a plan and period of implementation. Only
projects that can be directly implemented by the
District Use Only
applicant, or its contracted agent, will be considered for
Project Number__________________________ FY ____________
funding assistance. Please note that the District will
require the applicant, through an interlocal agreement, to Date Submitted _________________________________________
carry out the project within a specified period. Department Director ____________________________________
10. Key Personnel:

List all key personnel to be involved, all persons
Project Name (40 character limit):
authorized to represent the applicant and a primary
contact person who will be responsible for maintaining
communication with District staff. Include name, title,
mailing address and telephone number for each individual Who should we contact for more information regarding your project?
cited. Applicant: _____________________________________________________________________
11. Additional Information: Contact Name: _________________________________________________________________
Any other information considered relevant to the
project should be included. The applicant may be asked to Address: _______________________________________________________________________
provide documentation verifying funds have been
budgeted for the applicant’s portion of the project. City, State, Zip: _________________________________________________________________
Phone: ( )____________________Ext:______ Fax: ( ) ________________________
County/Counties (Identify counties associated with project): ________________________________________
Project Type (check only one):
❏ Communications ❏ SWIM ❏ Aerial Mapping/GIS

❏ Alternative Source ❏ Groundwater ❏ Stormwater Management/Flood Control
❏ Water Conservation ❏ Water Quality
Cost Information:
Total amount of project cost (all years/phases) $

_________________________________________
$
Total upcoming fiscal year cost (basin cost plus applicant cost) _________________________________
Indicate amount to be provided by Applicant for upcoming fiscal year $

_____________
Is this a previously funded project? ❑ yes ❑ no
If yes, what year funding is being requested? (example 1st, 2nd, etc.) _______________________
If yes, what is the District Project Number? _______________________________________
(continued on next page)

107
Provide a brief description of the proposed project. (“see attached” is not acceptable):
Briefly describe project benefits, regionally and locally (“see attached” is not acceptable):
Briefly describe any anticipated problems:
Funding Information — Please check all basins that apply:

❏ Alafia River ❏ Coastal Rivers ❏ Green Swamp
❏ Hillsborough River ❏ Manasota ❏ Northwest Hillsborough
❏ Peace River ❏ Pinellas-Anclote River ❏ Withlacoochee River
Indicate the basin(s) and how much money is requested from each:
Example: Hillsborough River $2,000 and Alafia River $3,000

108
109
Rates and Fees
City of St. Petersburg City of Largo Manatee County

Large Public Access System Medium Public Access System Medium Agricultural System
20MGD 7MGD 10MGD
Sarasota County
3MGD

110
Appurtenances

111
Reference Resources
United States Environmental Protection Agency Southwest Florida Water Management District American Water Works Association National Water Research Institution
(To order, call 1-800-490-9198) (To order, call 1-800-423-1476) (To order, call 1-800-926-7337) (To order, call 714-378-3278)
Cross-Connection Control Manual 1997 Annual Reuse Report Dual Water Systems, M24 (manual) Water From Water (video)
#EPA570989007 #30024
Retrofit Programs and Reuse Projects, 1997 Summary
Developing Public/Private Partnerships: Report Cross-Connection and Backflow Prevention (guide)
An Option For Wastewater Financing (brochure) #20106
#EPA832F92003 10 Reasons Why You Should Use Reclaimed Water City Of Largo
(brochure) Cross-Connection Control (video and manual) (To order, call 727-586-7417)
Guidelines For Water Reuse (manual) #65013
#EPA625R92004 A Breakthrough For Future Water Supplies: Sparkling Water (video)
Reclaimed Water (brochure) Recommended Practices for Backflow Prevention and
Municipal Wastewater Reuse: Cross-Connection Control, M14 (manual) Wastewater Management (video)
Selected Readings On Water Reuse (articles) Water Saved Is Water Shared (video) #30014
#EPA430991022
Water Conservation Plan Guidelines (manual)

#EPA832D98001
St. Johns River Water Management District Water Environment Federation
Water Reuse Via Dual Distribution Systems (brochure) (To order, call 904-329-4126) (To order, call 1-800-666-0206)
#EPA832R85106
Reuse Reference Book Using Reclaimed Water To Augment
Potable Water Resources (guide)
Reuse of Reclaimed Water (brochure) #P07114HB
Florida Department Of Environmental Protection Reuse Water (brochure) Water Reuse: An Assessment Report
(To order, call 850-488-4524) #D42004HB
Reuse Of Reclaimed Water (brochure) Water Reuse, MOP SM-3 (guide)

#MSM3HB
1997 Reuse Inventory (report) Florida Water & Pollution Control
Operators Association Water Reuse Digest (articles/papers)
Every Drop Counts…Use It Again, Florida! (video) (To order, call 407-267-5452) #P0029HB
Water: A Resource To Reuse (video) Water Recycling:

Good For Your Lawn and Your Wallet (bill stuffer)
#HS1302

112
Authors and Contributors Contacts
Florida Department of Environmental Protection Section

(Florida Department of Environmental Protection)
Lauren Walker-Coleman, Contributing Author
David York, Contributing Author

(City of St. Petersburg)
Joseph Towry, Contributing Author
Debbie Kelber, Contributing Author

(City of Largo)
Mike Sepessy, Contributing Author

(Sarasota County)
Lori Ann Carroll, Contributing Author

(Conserv II / City of Orlando)
Phil Cross, Senior Project Manager, Woodard & Curran, Inc.
Colan Shane Benner, Contributing Author
Dan Dashtaki, Contributing Author
Gary Williams, Contributing Author

(Manatee County)
Edmund McAdam, P.E., Contributing Author

(City of Plant City)
Bob Bedell, Contributing Author
Jim Capps, Contributing Author
Bill Russell, Contributing Author
Aquifer Storage and Recovery Section

(CH2MHILL)
Mark McNeal, Contributing Author

(Southwest Florida Water Management District)
Anthony Andrade, Editor, Compiler, Contributing Author

113
Words to the Wise
1. A Reclaimed Water Coordinator position is essential in developing a successful system. (Mike Sepessy) 14. Think of reclaimed water as a resource, and promote responsible use. (Mike Sepessy)
2. Utilities should specify purple square reclaimed water valve boxes to distinguish them from the blue round 15. Reclaimed water is a precious resource. (Ed McAdam)
potable water valve boxes. (Lori Ann Carroll)
16. Identify, educate and contract with your customers, and then design your system. (Mike Sepessy)
3. Develop a program for education, inspection, cross-connection control, and inventory before you install the
first reclaimed system. (Bill Russell) 17. Reclaim the same bucket of water over and over again. (Ed McAdam)
4. Replace the word “wastewater” with “Reclaimed Water,” as in “It is a Reclaimed Water Facility and not a 18. All advisory signs should include the appropriate universal symbols and state the required wording “Do Not
Wastewater Treatment Plant. (Mark Nunes) Drink” and “Do Not Swim.” The use of reflective and non-fading materials on signs is a must. (Lori Ann Carroll)
5. A thorough inspection and cross-connection control program is crucial for public safety. (Mike Sepessy) 19. First, educate your elected officials, and then your public. (Mike Sepessy)
6. Signs should always be used to identify reclaimed water irrigation systems. (Bill Russell) 20. Nature recycles, we should too. (Ed McAdam)
7. Budget for reclaimed water personnel to attend seminars, courses and certification classes to stay informed of 21. Design a good pamphlet to fit the needs of your customers. (Bill Russell)
the latest rules, trends, and technology. (Lori Ann Carroll)
22. Work in conjunction with your local County Cooperative Extension Service to develop a listing of vegetation
8. Influent to effluent, a complete cycle. (Ed McAdam) that does well with this resource. (Joe Towry)
9. Recycling our resources is the key to our future needs. “Reuse water.” (Jim Capps) 23. Provide up-to-date information of the progress of the program, as implemented. (Joe Towry)
10. Make your reclaimed water program as visible as possible. For example, Largo Reclaimed Water personnel 24. Certify all field inspection personnel in the areas of cross connection control and reclaimed water field
wear purple golf shirts and khaki pants as uniforms, and all promotional items (hats, mugs, pencils, rain gauges, inspection. (Joe Towry)
etc.) are purple. (Mike Sepessy)
25. Ensure staff has a good understanding of Rule 62.610 and local codes as they pertain to the program. (Joe Towry)
11. All pipes, valve boxes, and meter assemblies should be purple color coded and marked “Reclaimed Water. Do
Not Drink.” (Bill Russell) 26. A complete analysis of your reclaimed water is essential in order to address the public’s concern about “salt
content” and plant compatibility. Largo provides analyses of reclaimed and drinking water to demonstrate that
12. Test purple marking paint and meter/hydrant paint prior to using in the field. Some brands fade to white, or the reclaimed water is almost drinking-water quality. (Mike Sepessy)
worse yet, blue, when exposed to UV light. (Mike Sepessy)
13. By educating your customers on the proper uses and watering guidelines of reclaimed water you can minimize
potential problems and maximize supply. (Lori Ann Carroll)

114
Code of Good Practices for Water Reuse in Florida
Florida Department of Environmental Protection

The Florida Water Environment Association’s Water Reuse Committee
Those who embrace the Code of Good Practices for Water Reuse in Florida commit to
“do the right thing” by upholding the following 16 principles of conduct related to
protection of public health and environmental quality, management of the reuse system,
and public awareness:
Protection of Public Health and Environmental Quality
Public Health Significance – To recognize that distribution of reclaimed water for

non-potable purposes offers potential for public contact and that such contact has
significance related to the public health.
Compliance – To comply with all applicable state, federal, and local requirements
for water reclamation, storage, transmission, distribution, and reuse of reclaimed
water.
Product – To provide reclaimed water that meets state treatment and disinfection
requirements and that is safe and acceptable for the intended uses when delivered to
the end users.
Quality Monitoring and Process Control – To continuously monitor the reclaimed

water being produced and rigorously enforce the approved operating protocol such
that only high-quality reclaimed water is delivered to the end users.
Effective Filtration – To optimize performance of the filtration process in order to

maximize the effectiveness of the disinfection process in the inactivation of viruses
and to effectively remove protozoan pathogens.
Cross-Connection Control – To ensure that effective cross-connection control

programs are rigorously enforced in areas served with reclaimed water.
Inspections – To provide thorough, routine inspections of reclaimed water facilities,

including facilities located on the property of end users, to ensure that reclaimed
water is used in accordance with state and local requirements and that cross-
connections do not occur.

May 1, 2000 Use it Again, Florida!
Page 1 of 2
Reuse System Management
Water Supply Philosophy – To adopt a “water supply” philosophy oriented towards

reliable delivery of a high-quality reclaimed water product to the end users.
Conservation – To recognize that reclaimed water is a valuable water resource,

which should be used efficiently and effectively to promote conservation of the
resource.
Partnerships – To enter into partnerships with the Department of Environmental

Protection, the end users, the public, the drinking water utility, other local and
regional agencies, the water management district, and the county health department
to follow and promote these practices.
Communications – To provide effective and open communication with the public,

end users, the drinking water utility, other local and regional agencies, the
Department of Environmental Protection, the water management district, and the
county health department.
Contingency Plans – To develop response plans for unanticipated events, such as

inclement weather, hurricanes, tornadoes, floods, drought, supply shortfalls,
equipment failure, and power disruptions.
Preventative Maintenance – To prepare and implement a plan for preventative

maintenance for equipment and facilities to treat wastewater and to store, convey,
and distribute reclaimed water.
Continual Improvement – To continually improve all aspects of water reclamation

and reuse.
Public Awareness
Public Notification – To provide effective signage advising the public about the use
of reclaimed water and to provide effective written notification to end users of
reclaimed water about the origin of, the nature of, and proper use of reclaimed water.
Education – To educate the public, children, and other agencies about the need for
water conservation and reuse, reuse activities in the state and local area, and
environmentally sound wastewater management and water reuse practices.

May 1, 2000 Use it Again, Florida!
Page 2 of 2

Reclaimed Water Guide

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System Financing .......................................................................................... page 104

Rates and Fees ............................................................................................... page 110

Words to the Wise ......................................................................................... page 114

Southwest Florida Water Management District

Southwest Florida Water Management District

Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services DEP Permitting Activities FIGURE 1

Reuse Conventions Florida’s Reuse Experience

Southwest Florida Water Management District

Southwest Florida Water Management District

Southwest Florida Water Management District

Southwest Florida Water Management District

Southwest Florida Water Management District

Southwest Florida Water Management District

guarantee interconnection with regional reclaimed water customer service line.

Southwest Florida Water Management District

City of St. Petersburg

Southwest Florida Water Management District

City of St. Petersburg

Southwest Florida Water Management District

City of St. Petersburg

Southwest Florida Water Management District

City of St. Petersburg

Southwest Florida Water Management District

Southwest Florida Water Management District

Southwest Florida Water Management District

Southwest Florida Water Management District

Southwest Florida Water Management District

Southwest Florida Water Management District

City of Plant City

Southwest Florida Water Management District

City of Plant City

Southwest Florida Water Management District

City of Plant City

Southwest Florida Water Management District

City of St. Petersburg

Southwest Florida Water Management District

City of St. Petersburg

Southwest Florida Water Management District

City of St. Petersburg

Southwest Florida Water Management District

City of St. Petersburg

Southwest Florida Water Management District

City of St. Petersburg

Southwest Florida Water Management District

City of St. Petersburg

Southwest Florida Water Management District

City of St. Petersburg

Southwest Florida Water Management District

City of St. Petersburg

Southwest Florida Water Management District

Southwest Florida Water Management District

Southwest Florida Water Management District

Southwest Florida Water Management District

Southwest Florida Water Management District

Southwest Florida Water Management District

Southwest Florida Water Management District

Southwest Florida Water Management District

Southwest Florida Water Management District

Southwest Florida Water Management District

Southwest Florida Water Management District