In response to escalating water scarcity exacerbated by climate change, the rapidly growing community of St. George, Utah, is implementing innovative solutions. The area, surrounded by deserts and experiencing a population boom, is facing an imminent water crisis. Local leaders are turning to a wastewater reclamation initiative, which aims to treat sewage and repurpose it for irrigation. This plan not only aims to satisfy the needs of the burgeoning population but also demonstrates a model for other drought-stricken areas confronting similar challenges.
"All the water has been used. It's been called for. But yet, we have one of the fastest-growing communities in the Western United States," said Zach Renstrom, general manager of the Washington County Water Conservancy District in St. George.
The local population, now just over 200,000, has more than doubled since 2002. The University of Utah projects it could double again by 2050.
Once complete, it'll take effluent from local kitchens and bathrooms and clean it with screens, bacteria and UV light.
In the near term, the treated wastewater will be sprayed on lawns and farm fields. But that will free up water for homes, too.
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