UPDATE: The Boulder City Council has just passed an ordinance imposing a two-year ban on the use of gray water through the city’s water utility. This decision comes as the city prepares to align itself with a new state law, set to take effect in 2024, that regulates gray water systems for new constructions.
Gray water, which is recycled water from household sources like sinks and showers, can be repurposed for irrigation, presenting an opportunity for significant water conservation. However, officials are prioritizing compliance with the upcoming state legislation over immediate implementation.
The ordinance aims to establish a framework for a rigorous gray water system. City staff indicate that this process will demand extensive resources, including the adoption of new regulations and the creation of a comprehensive permitting process. Implementing such a system is expected to require at least two full-time positions and significant time investment, with inspections and tracking measures to prevent contamination of drinking water.
While conservationists support gray water reuse for irrigation, a city memo cited a project at CU Boulder that found gray water conservation efforts yielded less water savings than anticipated. The project, which ran from 2013 to 2023, raised questions about the efficiency of gray water systems.
Public engagement surrounding the gray water issue has sparked controversy. Planning Board Chair Mark McIntyre criticized the ordinance as being overly broad and stifling behaviors that could contribute to sustainability goals. He urged city staff to refine the ordinance with clearer definitions and engage a wider array of stakeholders in discussions about gray water use.
With the city now implementing this temporary ban, residents hoping to utilize gray water systems must wait until at least the end of the ban. As the situation develops, it is crucial to monitor how Boulder will navigate the complexities of these new regulations and their potential impact on water conservation efforts.
Residents and environmental advocates are encouraged to stay informed as the council works towards a sustainable solution while balancing regulatory compliance. This decision not only affects irrigation practices but also reflects a broader discussion about water conservation in the region.
What happens next? The Boulder City Council plans to review community feedback and refine its approach to gray water systems over the coming months. Stay tuned for updates as this important issue unfolds.
