Presenter:  Ron Doughten, Oregon DEQ

Increasing demand on Oregon’s limited water resources has prompted public interest in using graywater as an alternate water source. Graywater is wastewater originating from showers, baths, bathroom sinks, kitchen sinks and laundries. New rules adopted in August 2011 established a statewide program for permitting graywater reuse and disposal systems, and the Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) expects to begin accepting permit applications for graywater systems in Spring 2012. 

Join us for a conversation about the new rules and practical information for designing systems with Ron Doughten, DEQ’s Water Reuse Program Coordinator. Ron worked with a 14-person advisory committee, including local architect Nir Pearlson, that  provided DEQ with recommendations on the new graywater rules and led DEQ’s efforts to get those rules adopted. Ron has 14 years of environmental experience, working for DEQ as well as in private environmental consulting. As DEQ's Biosolids and Water Reuse Program Coordinator, Ron develops DEQ's policies for the recovery and reuse of water and wastewater while protecting public health and the environment. He also provides support to regional DEQ staff who are responsible for permitting biosolids and water reuse activities.