As Utah emerges from one of the longest droughts in its history, the state is turning to innovative solutions to usher in a more resilient water future. In a recent Aquatech article, the City of South Jordan and Carollo are spotlighted for their pioneering work on Utah’s first direct potable reuse (DPR) demonstration facility: Pure SoJo.
Utah’s First Direct Potable Reuse Demonstration Facility
Designed by Carollo, Pure SoJo is a cutting-edge water reuse facility that purifies wastewater through multiple advanced treatment steps to produce high-quality drinking water. Using a carbon-based system, it meets or exceeds regulatory standards without the need for brine disposal, offering a sustainable alternative to traditional reverse osmosis technologies.
Though the purified water is currently returned to the wastewater system, Pure SoJo is more than a technical pilot, it’s a public education tool. With open tours and taste testing available, the City of South Jordan is helping residents better understand and trust the science behind water reuse.
DPR and Sustainable Water Solutions
“As one of the fastest growing cities in the U.S., we recognize the need for sustainable water solutions,” said South Jordan Public Works Director Raymond Garrison. “This project shows how communities can take charge of their water future.”
Carollo is also working with the city to explore the potential for a full-scale DPR facility. Their efforts recently earned national recognition from the WateReuse Association, which honored the project for Excellence in Action.
Advancing Water Reuse in the American West
Utah’s long-term water challenges, including rising demand, limited supplies, and growing awareness of water scarcity, make projects like Pure SoJo essential. As Carollo Project Manager Stetson Bassett noted in the article, “This project underscores Carollo’s commitment to providing innovative solutions that serve communities and preserve our essential natural resources.”
To read more about South Jordan’s leadership in water reuse, read the full article in Aquatech.
