What is Recycled Water?
It's water that is used, purified and used again.
Why Recycle Water?
Recycled water prepares our city for growth, drought and climate change. Purifying water for reuse creates a drought-proof water supply to protect access to clean water for generations to come.
How Will Boise Recycle Water?
We’ve explored using recycled water for groundwater recharge and industrial reuse based on community interest. We’ll continue to engage with our community to hear which uses matter most.
Groundwater Recharge
Groundwater recharge replenishes our groundwater with purified water. In Boise, 70% of our drinking water comes from groundwater, and our supply is starting to decline in some parts of the city. Groundwater recharge boosts the local water supply to prepare for drought and support our growing city.
Protecting Groundwater Quality
To meet community expectations about water quality, the city hosted a 6-month advisory group. The advisory group evaluated four water quality options and shared their priorities. Learn more about the Recycled Water Program Advisory Group here.
Industrial Reuse
Industrial reuse creates a new, sustainable water system for local businesses and industries. Industries use water for manufacturing, cooling and washing equipment. Industrial reuse creates a closed-loop water system that preserves our local water supply.
When Will Boise Start Recycling Water?
We’re exploring the best timing for recycled water in Boise.
Expert Review of Our Program
We share our study results with independent experts and use their feedback to improve our program. The City of Boise presented a full technical report to a panel from the National Water Research Institute (NWRI) in 2021 and 2023. You can watch videos of the presentations from the City of Boise and read the responses from NWRI in their reports at the links below.
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