What is "reclaimed" or "recycled" water?
Reclaimed water, also referred to as recycled water, is municipal wastewater that has been cleaned and treated in order to remove pollutants and contaminants so that the water can be safely reused for a variety of uses. The California Department of Health Services has established the treatment standards and regulations regarding any reuse. Windsor treats its wastewater to tertiary recycled water standards (also referred to as advanced water treatment) which is the highest level of treatment defined by the State and allows for unrestricted reuse in virtually all reclaimed water applications. Examples of common recycled water reuse applications include: Any agricultural irrigation (food crops, vineyards, sod farms, Christmas tree farms, etc), ornamental plants, parks and playing fields, golf courses, cemeteries and recreational waterways for boating and swimming, cooling tower water, groundwater recharge and toilet flushing. Recycled water is an excellent substitute for drinking water in many applications especially in areas experiencing drinking water shortages due to droughts or limitations on supply.

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1. What happens to the Town's wastewater after it is treated?
2. What is "reclaimed" or "recycled" water?
3. Is recycled water safe?
4. How long has recycled water been in use?
5. Where is recycled water used in Windsor?
6. What is the Town doing to make sure the recycled water is always safe?
7. How is recycled water treated?
8. Why is the Town's partnership in the Geysers beneficial?