Water Resiliency Workshop addresses key issues for Advanced Water Purification
Photo by engin akyurt on Unsplash
Experts in water reuse research, water utility operations, and public policy gathered at the Water Campus in early June 2026 for a workshop focused on advancing Arizona's water future. Titled Water Resiliency and Self Sufficiency in Arizona – Flowing Forward with Advanced Water Purification, the event explored opportunities and challenges surrounding advanced water purification (AWP) in the arid state.
Attendees of the Water Resiliency Workshop at the Water Campus in June 2026
Participants included researchers and students from the WEST Center and other University of Arizona departments, along with representatives from Arizona utilities and jurisdictions—including the City of Phoenix, City of Scottsdale, and Tucson Water—as well as the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and other state and regional agencies. Over the two-day workshop, 56 participants exchanged ideas and explored opportunities for collaboration.
The first day, June 4, featured presentations and interactive breakout sessions on topics ranging from the detection and attenuation of viruses and trace organic contaminants to the planning and design of AWP systems at different scales. Participants identified current gaps in research and implementation, discussed concentrate management, and developed ideas for strengthening partnerships between utilities and universities. Afternoon sessions focused on planning an AWP system for Tucson and on workforce development. A breakout session explored workforce needs and strategies for community education, and the day concluded with a tour of the WEST Center laboratories.
Student poster winners at the Water Resiliency Workshop: Ariana Tariqi (left, 1st place), Simran Singh (middle, 2nd place), and Miguel Astorga (right, 3rd place)
Activities continued on June 5 with a student poster session showcasing water reuse research, followed by time for one-on-one discussions between participants.
The two-day event strengthened connections among those working to improve Arizona's long-term water security and resilience through water reuse. The workshop was organized by Water Resiliency Program coordinators and funded through a partnership with the U.S. Army Engineer Research and Development Center (ERDC).