Arizona And Nevada Leading In Recycling Colorado River Water

The Colorado River, a vital water source for numerous U.S. states, faces unprecedented strain due to prolonged drought and increasing demand. A new study shows that Arizona and Nevada stand out as leaders in reducing this pressure through proactive and extensive wastewater recycling efforts. While other basin states grapple with lower adoption rates, Arizona and Nevada demonstrate the potential of water reuse as a crucial strategy for water security.

Data from the "Colorado River Basin: Wastewater Reuse Assessment" reveals a stark contrast in recycling percentages. In 2022, Arizona recycled more than half (52%) of its treated municipal wastewater, while Nevada reached an estimated 85%. This significantly outpaces the less than 5% average recycling rate of the upper basin states (Colorado, New Mexico, Utah, and Wyoming) and California's 22%.