Drought Measure Would Allow Use of ‘Gray Water’
Los Angeles County supervisors Tuesday ordered the drafting of a drought-inspired ordinance that would allow the use of household waste water, known as gray water, for trees and shrubs in unincorporated areas.
By unanimous vote, the board directed the county counsel and Department of Health Services to craft a law permitting the installation or modification of existing drainage systems to collect and distribute gray water for irrigation purposes.
Many health officials strenuously oppose gray water--from showers, tubs, kitchens and washing machines, for example--because it can spread disease-causing bacteria and other contaminants. County health department guidelines call for the ordinance to ensure the water is transported through underground irrigation systems to limit exposure to contaminants.
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