Water suppliers can look many places for water to serve new growth.  They can look at existing aquifers or reservoirs, which may be expensive and time consuming to develop as water supplies.  Alternatively, they can use reclaimed water and rainwater harvesting to create an increment of supply.  Reclaimed water, defined as domestic wastewater that is treated to a level such that it is suitable for beneficial reuse, can provide a significant increment of supply for use in nonpotable applications such as irrigation, industrial uses, power plant cooling water or toilet flushing.  This treated wastewater, also known as recycled or reused water, can also be discharged to leaching fields to help replenish local aquifers.  With adequate treatment, reused water can satisfy many water demands.  Where there is a greater chance of human exposure, more treatment is required.

The use of reclaimed water or alternative sources can provide many advantages to communities and businesses.  Large-scale water reuse will reduce the need for expanding water supplies, so communities can avoid the process of permitting new supplies.  Cost effective water reuse systems will allow business and industry to operate and expand at lower cost.  Wastewater treatment facilities will discharge less wastewater and may be able to sell some wastewater back to recycled water users, increasing cost efficiencies.  Reduced water demand will result in healthier rivers, streams, and lakes for recreation and wildlife.  

Rainwater harvesting can provide another alternative water supply source for many nonpotable uses, especially irrigation and outdoor uses.  Rainwater harvesting techniques range from simple rain barrels to modular vault systems that can be scaled up to hold 40,000 gallons or more. 

25)    Establish state policies supportive of water reuse

26)    Provide technical assistance and training to promote water reuse

27)    Require evaluation of water reuse opportunities as a condition of water service for large developments

28)    Encourage water reuse in state-funded construction projects

29)    Increase the use of rainwater harvesting