Reclaimed Wastewater Use in Agriculture: Benefits and Potential Harmful Effects.

Use of reclaimed wastewater in agriculture and landscape has become an integral part of comprehensive water planning to meet the increasing demands on limited water resources. While current wastewater reclamation technology is capable of producing finished water of any desirable quality, the amount of impurities (pollutants) in reclaimed municipal wastewater after conventional treatment may accentuate the potential impact of the direct use for agricultural and landscape irrigation. Our research investigated the impacts of reclaimed water irrigation on agricultural production and the environment. Key activities include: (1) assessing the leaching potential of pharmaceuticals and personal care products (PPCPs) and endocrine disrupting compounds (EDCs) in fields receiving reclaimed wastewater for irrigation; (2) using computer models to assess the potential impact of salinity on crop growth; and (3) impacting public perception to promote safe application of reclaimed wastewater. The ultimate goal is to advance water sustainability though increasing reclaimed wastewater reuse to protect water supplies and the natural environment.