Recycled Water: Turning Every Drop into a Local Resource

Joe Grindstaff
Dec 1
2 min read

Sprinklers water a lush green lawn on a sunny day, with trees in the background. Water sprays in arcs, creating a refreshing atmosphere.

In our region, water isn’t just used once and discarded; it’s responsibly reused. Through the Eastern Municipal Water District (EMWD) recycled water program, every drop that can be reused is kept in play to benefit parks, schools, farms, and our community at large. This approach not only supports sustainability but also helps keep your water rates stable and reduces our dependence on imported supplies.

A Local Resource Working for Hemet

EMWD describes its recycled water program as a strategic objective to beneficially reuse 100 percent of its recycled water supply within its service area during years of normal or below‐average rainfall (EMWD, Recycled Water Service). The program treats more than 49 million gallons of wastewater each day at its four regional treatment plants and distributes it through more than 260 miles of pipeline, serving agriculture along with public landscaping, parks, schools, and more (EMWD, Recycled Water Service). By using this recycled water in irrigation and other non‐potable uses, EMWD reduces pressure on potable water sources, including imports from outside our region.

The impact is meaningful: by giving reused water its intended purpose, EMWD helps keep potable water for households and businesses in Hemet. It also supports local agriculture and public landscaping; uses that might otherwise draw on higher‐cost supply. Further, recycled water is an important part of maintaining affordability; it offsets demand on more expensive drinking water supplies (EMWD, Recycled Water Rates).

What You Can Do to Support Recycling Efforts

Consider using landscaping that aligns with the reuse water availability (e.g., choosing plants and irrigation systems suited for recycled water zones).
Be aware of whether your property is eligible for recycled water and explore the application process through EMWD’s “Applying for Recycled Water” steps (EMWD, Applying for Recycled Water).
Support public spaces that use recycled water (parks, schools, community areas). Your choices as a resident ultimately help strengthen community supply resilience.
Stay informed about the benefits of recycled water and share that knowledge with neighbors, friends, and local groups. Awareness supports acceptance and long-termminvestment.

Looking Ahead

The push toward full reuse makes sense not just for today, but for decades ahead. EMWD’s recycled water program shows how innovation and resourcefulness go hand in hand with keeping our community's water reliable and affordable. As we move forward, know that every drop being reused here in our area is helping build a stronger water future for Hemet; one local, sustainable drop at a time. Learn how EMWD is making every drop count for our community and our future.