Reclaimed Water System (Irrigation Water)
The St. Lucie West Services District (SLWSD) operates a reclaimed water system that provides an environmentally responsible and cost-effective way to reuse treated wastewater for irrigation throughout the community. After wastewater is fully treated and disinfected at the District’s Wastewater Treatment Plant, the resulting high-quality reclaimed water is stored in large holding ponds and distributed through a dedicated purple-pipe network. This system delivers reclaimed water to golf courses, landscaped areas, and community green spaces across St. Lucie West—keeping the community’s environment healthy and vibrant.
To ensure reliable and efficient service, SLWSD maintains two reclaimed water pump stations that pressurize and distribute irrigation water throughout the District. The reclaimed water is also blended with stormwater from the District’s retention ponds, creating an additional water source for irrigation. This blending process not only increases the overall irrigation supply but also helps manage pond levels and maximize water reuse within the community.
Using reclaimed water offers a wide range of benefits. It conserves groundwater, reduces demand on drinking water supplies, and promotes long-term water sustainability. By reusing reclaimed and stormwater for irrigation, there is less need for new deep wells and injection wells, helping preserve natural water resources and reduce infrastructure costs. These efficiencies contribute to maintaining stable utility rates for residents and businesses.
In addition to environmental and economic benefits, reclaimed water helps reduce the strain on the regional aquifer that supplies potable water to residents, supporting Florida’s broader water conservation goals.
The SLWSD reclaimed water system is operated by licensed professionals and regulated by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) to ensure consistent quality and safety. Through this innovative program, SLWSD transforms treated wastewater and stormwater into valuable community resources—supporting sustainability, lowering costs, and helping St. Lucie West remain clean, green, and resilient for generations to come.
If you have questions related to our Reclaimed Water System, please visit our Contact Us page of our website to find our Utilities Department contact information, or contact our Public Information Officer.