Arizona's New Water Plan: Treating Wastewater To Tackle Drought
From April 2020 to March 2025, Arizona has endured its fourth driest stretch of drought on record, underscoring the urgency of water conservation efforts across the state. With water resources strained and climate conditions remaining unpredictable, both state agencies and residents are being urged to take proactive steps in managing water use.
“Just be conscious of your water use,” Jonny Malloy, a meteorologist with the Flood Control District of Maricopa County, told AZFamily. “I think it can be taken for granted.” His words highlight the need for increased awareness as Arizona faces ongoing environmental challenges.
In response, the state is embracing innovative water management strategies. One of the most promising developments is the approval of new regulations that allow for the treatment and reuse of wastewater as potable, or drinkable, water. These forward-thinking rules pave the way for municipalities to convert treated wastewater into a safe, sustainable water source.
Leading the way is Scottsdale’s Advanced Water Treatment (AWT) Facility, which is now treating up to 20 million gallons of recycled water daily. Previously, recycled wastewater was primarily used for non-potable applications, such as agricultural irrigation, industrial processes, and cooling systems. The new rules mark a major shift by enabling its safe reuse as drinking water, expanding its potential impact.
Randall Matas, Deputy Director of the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ), described the true benefits to 12News as giving utilities “another option in their toolbox to responsibly manage their water portfolio and ensure that Arizonans have access to water, both today and into the future.”
As Arizona continues to confront extreme drought conditions, the expansion of wastewater recycling may prove vital to the state’s long-term water security.