> Home » OurCommunity » Environment » WaterQuality

Reclaimed Water

Reclaimed water is wastewater that has been treated to very high standards to remove harmful organisms and pollutants so that it can be safely reused.

Local Reclaimed Water Projects
GRU supplies reclaimed water for various uses in our community:

• Irrigation
  
• Water features
  
• Industrial uses

Common Questions about Reclaimed Water

• Where is it treated?
  We treat reclaimed water at the Kanapaha Water Reclamation Facility and the Main Street Wastewater Reclamation Facility.

• Is it safe?
  Yes. Although our reclaimed water actually meets federal and state drinking water standards, it is not intended to be used for drinking, swimming or showering. Incidental contact – such as being sprayed by a sprinkler – is safe for people and animals.

• How is it used?
  Reclaimed water is used for irrigation, water features and industrial applications. Excess reclaimed water is discharged back into the lower regions of the Floridan Aquifer. The Kanapaha facility is one of only two plants in Florida that is permitted to discharge its drinking-water quality effluent directly into the aquifer.

• How does it benefit our environment?
• It saves our drinking water – a precious, limited resource – by providing a reliable source of irrigation water
• Small amounts of nutrients in reclaimed water decrease the need to fertilize lawns and landscaping
• It is used to create aesthetic water features, restore natural areas and recharge the Floridan Aquifer.

• Can I get it at my home or business?
  Reclaimed water is only available in certain areas of Gainesville. View a map in our Water Reclamation Brochure pdf.