In this insightful episode, Suzan continues her conversation with Hye Jin Lee to explore how the City of Chino, CA, is transforming treated wastewater into a valuable, sustainable resource. Learn how this forward-thinking city uses recycled water to irrigate parks, support agriculture, and build long-term water resilience—even during droughts.
Host: Suzan Chin-Taylor | Guest: Hye Jin Lee, PE
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What You’ll Learn:
The City of Chino’s 30-year journey to build a 34-mile recycled water system.
● How recycled water is used to keep Ayala Park’s 144 acres lush and green year-round.
● The partnership between Chino and the Inland Empire Utilities Agency (IUA) to treat water to tertiary levels.
● Benefits of recycled water during droughts, including exemption from conservation mandates.
● How agricultural customers contribute to Chino’s potable water credits.
● The regional and environmental impact of investing in sustainable water infrastructure.
● Cost/resource savings from switching from potable to recycled water for irrigation.
● Future expansion possibilities and insights into how other communities can adopt similar strategies.
Why It Matters:
In water-scarce regions like Southern California, every drop counts. Chino’s commitment to water reuse not only supports its local parks and agriculture but serves as a model of sustainability for cities facing similar challenges.
Contact Information:
Hye Jin Lee, PE
Public Works Director
Websites: cityofchino.org
Email: hjlee@cityofchino.org
Conclusion:
The City of Chino’s innovative approach to recycled water showcases how forward-thinking public works strategies can turn wastewater into a powerful asset. By investing in infrastructure and partnerships, Chino has not only preserved valuable potable water but also ensured its parks stay green, its agriculture thrives, and its community remains resilient during droughts. This episode is a testament to how sustainable water management can benefit both the environment and the people it serves.
Until next time—keep growing, and keep it flowing. 💧
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Connect with Suzan Chin-Taylor, host of The DooDoo Diva’s Smells Like Money Podcast:
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