The Challenges of Graywater as an Alternative Water Source for Landscape Irrigation

Continuing drought, water competition and severe restrictions on urban water use are hastily pushing for the implementation of water conserving practices and utilization of alternative water sources in landscaping activities. Graywater, identified as untreated water that comes from clothes washers, showers, and bathtubs constitutes ≥ 50% of the total household wastewater, and has the potential for becoming a significant source for landscape irrigation. Chemical, physical, and biological considerations and challenges associated with the use of graywater in home lawns and landscapes will be discussed in this presentation.