Brackish Groundwater Desalination  

Brackish Groundwater Desalination is a process that turns slightly salty groundwater into clean water we can use. Brackish water is saltier than freshwater but not as salty as ocean water. Because of this, it is not safe to drink or use for irrigation unless it is treated. 

During the desalination process, water is pumped from underground and cleaned using special filters that remove salt and other minerals. This creates fresh water that can be used for homes, businesses, and agriculture. This process is especially helpful in places where there is not much freshwater, because it allows communities to use local water supplies instead of relying on rivers or water brought in from other areas. 

The cleaning process also creates leftover salty water called brine which must be managed carefully. The City of Austin will study and test safe ways to dispose of brine while protecting the environment. 

What’s Next  

Austin Water will study the treatment of salty groundwater in Eastern Travis County to be used as a drinking water supply, including how it could work alongside other Water Forward strategies like Aquifer Storage and Recovery.  

Researchers will study groundwater chemistry and underground rock formations to better understand how desalination could work locally. Researchers will also evaluate options for safely managing brine, the concentrated saltwater created during desalination treatment, to protect our environment and local water resources.