EUGENE, Ore. — Oregon officials are ready to take applications
from individuals and businesses for reusing what’s called “gray
water” for irrigation. The Eugene Register-Guard reports that
gray water drains from showers, tubs, sinks and washing machines
and otherwise would go into a sewer system. Gray water doesn’t
include water from kitchens or toilets, nor does it include
garbage wastes or wastewater contaminated by soiled diapers.
Examples of gray water irrigation are gardens, lawns or golf
courses. State officials say the gray water isn’t allowed to
touch the edible part of food plants. The Legislature passed a
law in 2009 to set up a permit system. The Department of
Environmental Quality has now finished making the rules. Share
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