We are filing the following correction on an article we published on reclaimed water.  We are not taking a position on the health issues as the use of reclaimed is already allowed and encouraged by state law and is a widespread practice.

Audubon is closely monitoring a rumored draft bill concerning "reclaimed" water, which is the treated water that comes out of a wastewater treatment plant. Reclaimed water can be important to recharge groundwater lost to consumptive uses, which is generally the most preferable destiny for this product.  However, care must be taken that reclaimed water is treated to eliminate disease causing pathogens and other chemicals.  Reclaimed water is also useful for irrigation in circumstances where its use is carefully monitored and controlled to avoid nutrient contamination and overuse.  Expansion of the use of reclaimed water can be a good thing if its use does not lead to the continuation of wasteful landscape irrigation practices, and if nutrients in reclaimed water are adequately controlled.

However, as with all well-intentioned bills, there is an opportunity for over-reaching; Audubon will be on guard for language moving Floridatowards a system that privatizes water.

Case in point: draft bill language is rumored to include a statement that reclaimed water should not be considered "waters of the state" which would imply that DEP and water management districts have no role to play in how it is used or by whom. In essence, this would make this source of water a private commodity: Not good! We will keep you informed as this bill takes shape so you can help us