Stantec has been appointed as the Owner’s Advisor for the Washington County Regional Reuse Purification System. In this capacity, Stantec will collaborate with the Washington County Water Conservancy District, the City of St. George, and the Ash Creek Special Service District to spearhead a regional water reuse initiative. This program, which represents a $1 billion investment, will encompass over 30 projects aimed at enhancing local water supply efficiency.
Washington County, located in Utah’s hottest and driest region, is experiencing rapid growth, with water resources primarily sourced from the Virgin River drainage basin. Due to a surge in land development and an increase in tourism, the county's water demand is nearing the limits of its existing supply.
In its advisory role, Stantec will assist with various aspects of the program, including initial design, securing environmental permits, supporting state agency permit processes, and coordinating project setup. The system will feature reuse water initiatives to address agricultural and irrigation needs, with plans for a state-of-the-art water treatment facility designed for indirect potable reuse.
Stantec will assist with various aspects of the program, including initial design, securing environmental permits, supporting state agency permit processes, and coordinating project setup
“The Regional Reuse Purification System will deliver a higher quality potable water supply to local communities, lessen competition for existing agricultural water supplies, and support a more sustainable use of local groundwater resources,” said Clint Rogers, Stantec vice president. “As we embark on this work over the next several years, our team looks forward to continuing its partnership with program partners and supporting the region with alternative reuse systems.”
In addition to its engineering and design responsibilities, Stantec will also assist the district, the State of Utah, and other stakeholders in developing regulatory standards for potable reuse. The company previously completed a feasibility study for the district’s reuse plan and is actively involved in securing project funding, including $33 million through the US Bureau of Reclamation’s Small Storage and Large-Scale Water Recycling Programs.
“More than 50% of the water needed to serve our community over the next two decades will come from our Regional Reuse Purification System,” said Zach Renstrom, general manager of the Washington County Water Conservancy District. “The system will enhance our water security and stability while preserving our strong economy and quality of life.”
