California’s long‑term water reliability depends on sustainable resources that remain available during dry conditions. Unlike groundwater, which can be depleted, or State Water Project supplies, which are vulnerable to drought, recycled water is a renewable and drought‑resilient resource that remains available as long as wastewater is generated. The Recycled Water program supports the preservation of drinking water supplies while advancing the region’s overall water sustainability.
RECYCLED WATER
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Recycled Water Program
Ventura County Waterworks District Number 1 (VCWWD No. 1) has provided safely treated and tertiary‑disinfected recycled water for approved non‑drinkable uses, including agriculture, industrial, and landscape irrigation uses since 2003.
The recycled water system originates at the Moorpark Water Reclamation Facility (MWRF) and has expanded over time to serve multiple areas of the community. The current distribution system extends from the MWRF north through Grimes Canyon Road, along Championship Drive, and East of Broadway Road, and continues south through Hitch Boulevard and Ventavo Drive, with approximately 3,000 feet of recycled water pipeline in operation.
The program operates under strict state regulations established by the California State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB) and is permitted for use in accordance with the Title 22 of California Code of Regulation.
Key goals of the program include:
- Conserving drinking water for essential indoor and public health uses
- reducing dependence on imported water and supporting drought resilience
- Promoting sustainable, climate‑smart water management
WHAT IS RECYCLED WATER?
Recycled water is highly treated wastewater used for non‑drinking purposes and/or directed to percolation ponds, where it naturally infiltrates into the groundwater basin to help replenish local aquifers and support long‑term water sustainability.
Modern treatment facilities use multiple processes, such as filtration, biological treatment, and disinfection, to produce water that is safe for approved applications.
In California, recycled water is regulated under Title 22 of California Code of Regulations, which defines treatment levels and allowable uses. These standards are among the most protective in the world.
BENEFITS OF USING RECYCLED WATER
Cost‑Effective: Recycled water is provided at a lower cost than potable water, helping customers reduce irrigation expenses.
Nutrient‑Rich: Recycled water contains beneficial nutrients that can support plant growth and may reduce fertilizer needs.
Water Conservation: Recycled water reduces reliance on drinking water supplies and helps preserve limited freshwater resources.
Reliable and Drought‑Resistant: Using recycled water for irrigation frees up drinking water for essential indoor needs and strengthens long‑term supply reliability.
Sustainability: Recycled water can be routed to percolation ponds to help replenish local groundwater.
HOW DO WE KEEP DRINKING WATER PROTECTED?
Title 22 of the California Code of Regulations (CCR), along with our Cross‑Connection Control (CCC) program, ensures that recycled water systems remain completely separate from the drinking water system. Dedicated purple‑pipe infrastructure, Backflow Prevention Assemblies (BPAs), and routine cross‑connection testing prevent any possibility of recycled water entering the potable supply. For further information, please visit the Cross-Connection Control and Backflow Prevention webpage.
HOW SHOULD I REQUEST RECYCLED WATER?
First, the VCWWD No. 1 must determine whether recycled water service is available in your area. To begin the process, complete and submit the “Recycled Water Application” to wsdevelop@venturacounty.gov.
If recycled water service is available, you must meet all “Recycled Water Service and Permit Conditions”. Once these conditions are met, you must follow the “Steps for Connection to Recycled Water”.
Here are the downloadable documents referenced above:
- Recycled Water Application (Download link coming soon)
- Recycled Water Service and Permit Requirements (Download link coming soon)
- Steps for Connecting to Recycled Water (Download link coming soon)
Frequently Asked Questions
A reclamation facility treats wastewater to protect the community and ecosystem. At the facility, debris, harmful chemicals, and pollutants are removed through filtration, treatment, and disinfection. The treated water (effluent) can then be sent to percolation ponds to recharge the water table, discharged into a nearby waterway, or further disinfected and provided to customers for irrigation or agricultural purposes.
Moorpark Water Reclamation Facility (MWRF) creates a sustainable cycle by collecting and treating the City of Moorpark’s wastewater, then recycling the purified water for beneficial reuse. Any additional treated water is directed to percolation ponds, where it replenishes groundwater supplies and enhances long-term groundwater sustainability. The facility is powered primarily by two on-site solar fields, with interconnections to Southern California Edison (SCE) to ensure a reliable energy supply when needed. By conserving limited freshwater resources, reducing reliance on imported water, supporting climate-smart water management, and utilizing renewable energy, MWRF promotes a more resilient and sustainable water future for the community.
Yes, the Moorpark Water Reclamation Facility (MWRF) has relied on recycled water for outdoor irrigation and for indoor toilet and urinal flushing.
Studies have proven indirect exposure to recycled water at a park, athletic field, or golf course does not pose a health risk to children or adults. Our recycled water is treated and disinfected to meet strict state and federal standards; however, it is approved only for non‑potable uses and is not safe for drinking.
Most of the grass and plants used in landscaping around the Moorpark area will not be affected by switching to recycled water.
Yes, it conserves limited freshwater resources, reduces reliance on imported water, supports climate‑smart water management, and enhances groundwater sustainability through percolation.
The only items that should be flushed down the toilet are the three P’s: Pee, Poo, and Paper. Wet wipes, dental floss, Q-tips, hair, feminine hygiene products, and contraceptives should be disposed of in a trash can. Even wipes labeled “flushable” have been shown to break down less effectively than traditional toilet paper. All of these unapproved items can wreak havoc on the wastewater treatment process by clogging screens and pumps
