Despite the assurances of scientists, some people can't help but question safe-to-drink recycled water. In Part V of a five-part radio series on water conservation in the southwest, KUER, KUNC, KJZZ and the Mountain West News Bureau explore the psychology involved in accepting direct potable reuse.

WEST Center members helped to shape the dynamic conference in Flagstaff, AZ -- organized by WateReuse AZ and the AZ Water Association -- with presentations, achievement recognition, and contributions to the water reuse conversation.

KEYS interns from the University of Arizona explored topics of water and energy sustainability during a symposium and on-site tour of WEST Center in late June 2018.

On June 25, 2018, early operation of the new Marana WRF began. The plant - operated by WEST member Marana Water - is slated to be fully functioning by mid-August, and will initially service close to 10,000.

Recycled wastewater is gaining wider acceptance to boost drinking water supplies across the arid West. Now a project in Tucson proposes to use a portion of the metro area’s treated urban wastewater to make the Santa Cruz River flow through downtown again for the first time in 70 years.

Visiting the WEST Center in mid-May 2018, representatives from the Yuma Safe Council came with keen interest in the application of new technologies to ensure food security and safe crop production.

Sarah Prasek joined WEST in April 2018 as the Center's new Program Coordinator. She has significant experience coordinating programs and developing projects, and is enthusiastic about advancing the work at UA's WEST Center.

University of Arizona WEST Center and Tucson area utilities and individuals gained recognition at the 91st Annual AZ Water Association Conference held May 2-4 in Phoenix, AZ.

Coming from Humboldt State University, Dr. Andrea Achilli joined WEST Center in August 2017. His main fields of research are membrane processes for desalination and water reuse and energy recovery from water and wastewater.

With scarce water supplies, a sweltering climate and a rising population, can desert cities such as Tucson and Phoenix sustain us? Three UA experts say they are optimistic.