Recycled water: Turning wastewater into a valuable resource

Updated September 16, 2025

Water is one of our most precious resources. As demand continues to grow, in partnership, our communities are finding smarter, more sustainable ways to use the water we have. Including recycling water!

So, what is recycled water? Recycled water is highly treated wastewater that’s cleaned to the highest standards set by the California Department of Health Services, for safe, non-drinking uses. This includes irrigating parks, golf courses, and roadway medians, as well as industrial applications like cooling systems and construction activities such as dust control and soil compaction.

Using recycled water reduces our dependence on drinking water and helps preserve our natural resources. It also lowers the energy required to pump, treat, and transport water over long distances. Most importantly, recycled water is drought-proof, even during dry years. This supply remains reliable and helps us maintain vital services.

Purple water pipes

Roseville has worked hard to lead the charge in water reuse and recycling for decades. In fact:

  • In 1993, we developed its Recycled Water Master Plan.

  • By 1998, the first recycled water delivery was coordinated to the Woodcreek Golf Club.

  • In 2004, 619 million gallons were delivered to irrigation customers.

  • In 2020, the city reached 1 billion gallons of recycled water delivered since the program began.

Recycled water flows through a separate system of purple pipes, ensuring it never mixes with drinking water. And it’s completely safe!

By embracing recycled water at home, we help to ensure a sustainable future. It’s a win for the environment, our community, and future generations. Let’s keep the cycle going and do our part to keep the water flowing smoothly! Learn more about wastewater treatment and take a virtual tour today.

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