Managed Aquifer Recharge for Drinking Water Protection—Glacial Aquifer in Cape Cod, Massachusetts

Massachusetts's first large‐scale use of reclaimed water to irrigate a golf course began in 2001 at the Links at Bayberry Hills Golf Course. The project utilizes up to 28 million gallons per year (0.11 million cubic meters) of highly treated effluent from the nearby septage treatment plant and has a backup site for disposal of unused water. The golf course is over a large glacial aquifer, designated as a Sole Source Aquifer by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. This aquifer provides most of the drinking water for Cape Cod. In addition to protecting drinking water, the project must meet limitations on nitrogen loads due to degraded water quality in the harbors and estuaries. The multisite design provides an adaptable approach for protection of drinking water aquifers and demonstrates beneficial use of reclaimed wastewater. The project required cooperation between the town and the state to develop new regulations to permit beneficial water reuse. The project provides recreational benefits, protects drinking water, reduces nitrogen loads to the groundwater, and reduces groundwater withdrawals. Article impact statement: This case study demonstrates a successful approach to beneficial use of reclaimed wastewater to protect drinking water supplies.