Grantee Research Project Results

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Office of Science Advisor, Policy and Engagement
Office of Research and Development

National Priorities: Occurrence and Implications of De Facto Water Reuse on Drinking Water Supplies

This is the initial announcement of this funding opportunity.

CLOSED - For Informational Purposes Only

Funding Opportunity Number: EPA-G2024-ORD-E1

Assistance Listing Number: 66.511

Solicitation Opening Date: June 27, 2024
Solicitation Closing Date: August 21, 2024: 11:59:59 pm Eastern Time

Throughout the nation, drinking water supplies of many communities are directly influenced by the presence of treated municipal wastewater through the process of “de facto water reuse.” De facto water reuse occurs when a drinking water supply contains a significant fraction of wastewater effluent, typically from upstream wastewater discharges [1]. This contrasts with planned potable reuse where highly treated wastewater is purposefully used to supplement drinking water supplies. Understanding the risks from this form of unplanned water reuse is important to ensure clean and safe drinking water. De facto reuse is a common occurrence across the U.S. and other countries, but there is relatively little known about the impacts and potential risks. Additional research is needed to better understand the impact of de facto reuse nationwide, including potential human health risks and the interventions needed to mitigate those risks. This National Priorities funding opportunity solicits innovative research to address the knowledge gaps on the impact, risk, and mitigation of de facto reuse in drinking water sources across the United States.

National Priorities: Occurrence and Implications of De Facto Water Reuse on Drinking Water Supplies Funding Opportunity (pdf) (622.4 KB)

National Priorities: Occurrence and Implications of De Facto Water Reuse on Drinking Water Supplies Webinar Slides (pdf) (918.71 KB)

National Priorities: Occurrence and Implications of De Facto Water Reuse on Drinking Water Supplies Webinar Q&As (pdf) (159.04 KB)