More Storage

As populations grow and climates change, the water challenges that some regions will face over next 50 years may become existential threats. Water system sustainability need to rely on adaptation strategies address a range of challenges, from near-term threats flooding long-term struggles with drought. shortages are particular worry, current alarm in many areas shows how regional effects hotter drier days already stressing systems their customers. Fortunately, there supply-and-demand options available—these include improved use efficiency greater overall conservation, as well desalination reuse. But one area I believe gain attention is more storage. Increasing storage capacity allow effectively respond variations future supply demand. In addition operational capacity, can better capture stormwater, which would also alleviate problems related combined sewer overflows. an added benefit, create opportunities for energy generation. Surface projects somewhat rare because they take coordinate, investigate, permit. fact, goal remove dams, so creating new lakes be difficult. An easier route convert deep rock quarries into storage; if these resources available, achieve reasonable unit costs large volumes. any surface supply, evaporative losses, quality degrade time issues like algae growth or post-wildfire contamination. If geologic conditions aquifer characteristics allow, underground injection promising. Aquifer recovery (ASR)—banking when it available times not—is popular strategy augment existing groundwater supplies, attenuating reversing subsidence overpumping while minimizing evaporation. ASR especially attractive part indirect potable reuse (IPR). IPR, municipal wastewater treated and, this case, injected aquifer. project, collaboration environmental stewardship key, but IPR place, increase amount reliability Whatever approach utilities take, must compatibility, cost, community acceptance; success relies close coordination regulators leaders. This month's Journal AWWA features AWWA's updated guide affordability customer assistance, developing communicating rate changes, best practices labs. Please consider sharing your perspectives experiences professionals worldwide by writing me at [email protected].