Public Engagement on Water Reuse Beyond Community Surveys

Abstract

Wastewater reuse and other nontraditional water supply options may become necessary for communities facing extended drought due to population shifts and climate change.A community survey and subsequent analyses uncovered misconceptions and gaps in public knowledge surrounding water resources and water reuse.Surveys are useful for understanding public knowledge and opinions but must be supplemented with meaningful education and outreach.Without genuine public engagement and trust-building, water infrastructure projects might not align with a community's values and interests.

Understanding questions and concerns about potable water reuse: An analysis of survey write‐in responses

“…As authors of this paper have previously noted, surveys themselves do not equal community engagement, but rather, if designed appropriately, the results can offer a starting point for meaningful public dialogue about options for meeting future potable water demands and in designing effective education and outreach programming (Distler et al, 2021). PWR and other nontraditional water supply options might be considered in some communities grappling with challenges associated with population increase, climate change, and drought, but PWR might not always be the choice that aligns with community values and interests.…”