Safe Use of Wastewater in Agriculture: Good Practice Examples and Future Research Needs

Managed aquifer recharge (MAR) systems such as riverbank filtration and soil-aquifer treatment all involve the use of natural subsurface systems to improve the quality of recharged water (i.e., surface water, storm water, reclaimed water) before reuse (e.g. planned potable reuse). During MAR, water is either infiltrated via basins, subsurface injected or abstracted from wells adjacent to rivers. MAR systems represent an attractive option for augmenting and improving groundwater quality as well as for environmental management purposes. However, reuse systems designed for applications that involve human contact should include redundant barriers for pathogens that cause waterborne diseases. This case covers key aspects of a case study on virus removal at three full-scale MAR systems located in different regions of the United States (Arizona, Colorado, and California). MAR projects may be economically viable for developing countries; however, sustainable management is relevant to successfully maintain the attributes necessary for potable and non-potable water reuse.