Urban Instream Flow Augmentation Using Reclaimed Water in Korea

Current urban stream conditions and their restoration projects were investigated by surveying the urban stream management experts in 29 cities with high population density (more than 1,000person/). The survey results showed that the ratio of covered urban streams decreased by 1.4% (from 14% to 12.6%) in the last 5 years through steady river restoration projects promoted by governments. Nonetheless, 36.3% of 369 urban streams surveyed still report stream depletion problems; therefore, more efforts to alleviate the problems caused by distorted water circulation of urban streams are still necessary. Water depletion in many local urban streams, unlike national rivers, is accelerated due to negligence in stream management, budget shortage, and other reasons. To prevent stream depletion, the use of reclaimed water is suggested as one of the prevention plans. When available amounts of reused sewage are estimated through actual available nationwide sewage discharges of each watershed and instream flow of stream, annual instream flow supply of 780 million is expected; 4.8% reduction in the pollution load of public sewer treatment facilities is expected; and the creation of new value through water reuse service is expected. Thus, it is important for the reviews of feasibility and alternatives of water reuse projects for flow augmentation to consider not only investment budget reductions, but also environmental aspects. Also it is necessary to provide the financial support of unified government with strict water quality management policy.