As Corpus Christi faces strict Stage 3 drought restrictions, the city has taken a major step to help residents maintain their landscapes. The expanding Corpus Christi Reclaimed Water program now makes it easier for more residents to access this sustainable irrigation source—without violating water rules.
Reclaimed Water: A Smart Alternative in Times of Drought
Since December, Corpus Christi has operated under Stage 3 drought restrictions, prohibiting residents from watering turf grass with potable water. However, in an innovative pivot to water conservation, the city introduced a reclaimed water program to give residents access to non-potable water that’s safe for irrigation.
This initiative provides an eco-friendly solution that helps keep lawns green while still adhering to drought guidelines.
Filling Stations: Meeting the Demand with New Infrastructure
Reclaimed water has been available at a filling station at the Oso Wastewater Treatment Plant since February. Built at an estimated cost of $375,000, the station allows residents to collect the water at no charge.
However, with demand steadily growing—about 50 customers now use the service daily—city officials say the supply of 20,000 gallons per day often runs out by 4:15 p.m. To address this, a second filling station is currently under construction and expected to be operational by the end of the month. The goal is to reduce long wait times and make the process more efficient for users.
Expanded Hours and Weekend Access Coming Soon
The filling station currently operates on weekdays from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m., but starting April 26, Corpus Christi Water (CCW) will expand hours to include weekends. Residents can collect Corpus Christi Reclaimed water on Saturdays and Sundays between 8 a.m. and 1 p.m., offering greater flexibility and access.
This update aligns with CCW’s broader efforts to enhance the customer experience. According to Drew Molly, chief operating officer of Corpus Christi Water, the city is also exploring both short- and long-term strategies to manage the program more effectively.
Third-Party Management and Budget Plans
City staff proposes temporarily hiring a third-party operator to manage the reclaimed water program until CCW assigns additional personnel. They will further review this recommendation during the FY 2026 Operating Budget planning process.
These efforts signal the city’s strong commitment to investing in sustainable solutions while ensuring a seamless experience for residents.
Essential Details for Residents Interested in the Program
Residents who want to participate in the reclaimed water program must submit a permit application and receive city approval. While the treated wastewater is unsuitable for human consumption, it meets safety standards for irrigation purposes.
Those interested can find detailed information—including permit applications and program guidelines—on the city’s official website at bit.ly/reclaimedcc.
A Forward-Thinking Solution for Water Conservation
The expansion of Corpus Christi’s reclaimed water program is a timely and forward-thinking response to the region’s water crisis. The city empowers residents to conserve water without sacrificing their landscapes by offering a free, sustainable irrigation option.
As the city looks ahead, continued investments in infrastructure, staffing, and service hours reflect a proactive stance in tackling drought challenges—one reclaimed gallon at a time.