Recycling Treated Municipal Wastewater for Industrial Water Use

Long-Term Vision
Section 5: Summary and Potential Next Steps
Recycling Treated Municipal Wastewater for Industrial Water Use
The Land of 10,000 Lakes is experiencing regional and localized water supply limitations that will drive
the search for alternative supplies. As water demand continues to grow, recycled wastewater can be an
emerging water supply to counter those limitations in Minnesota. Growth in the development of the
ethanol industry is a prime example of the limitations new industries might face and the benefits of
promoting wastewater recycling as an
alternative water supply.
While the state does have experience
with wastewater recycling, it is still an
unknown concept to most
Minnesotans. The implementation
issues identified in this study indicate
the range of items to address as
wastewater recycling becomes more
common in Minnesota. A review of
wastewater recycling program
development in other states identified
three phases to consider in planning a
program, as shown in Figure 5.1.
Minnesota will start in the Near-Term
phase if it is to pursue and promote
development of wastewater recycling throughout the state.
5.2 Potential Next Steps
Figure 5.1. Steps in Implementation of Broad-Scale Wastewater
Recycling Programs
Conduct activities and
document outcomes to
prepare for wastewater
recycling on a broader
scale.
Establish a strategy to
promote wastewater
recycling and an
integrated plan for longterm
water resources
protection.
Near-Term
Wastewater
recycling is an
integral part of
community and
state water resource
planning.
State-specific
regulations and
construction
standards are
implemented.
Mid-Term
Wastewater
recycling is a
familiar
concept
and an
established
practice.
Long-Term
Potential next steps to carry on the development of wastewater recycling in Minnesota include engaging
in demonstration projects to address the various issues that were brought forth by stakeholders. These
projects can take a variety of forms, but the one that was considered to be of the most value to industries
is a project with an established group that walks “hand-in-hand” through the planning, design, and
construction phases of a project. This would include all regulatory agencies, community groups, water
utilities, and the wastewater utility and industry involved in the project. The purpose is to identify and
resolve implementation issues associated with successfully launching recycled wastewater projects whose
underlying goal is the protection of Minnesota’s water resources.
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