Wastewater Recharge and Wetland Construction by the City of Tucson

In the 1980s, the City of Tuscon implemented a “storage and recovery” (S&R) strategy to reduce its unsustainable reliance on groundwater. They treated groundwater, stored it in the aquifer, and reuse the treated water for non-portable water needs instead of pumping fresh groundwater. The Sweetwater Recharge Facilities features 40 acres of recharge basins and 22 acres of constructed wetlands, which help provide 6,500 acre-feet of treated wastewater. Vigorous vegetation along the constructed wetlands were managed to support quality wildlife habitat and public safety. The Sweetwater wetlands also serve as an outdoor destination for local community to learn about wetland ecology and view wildlife.