Evaluating how treated water from energy production can safely support ecological restoration

Purpose

To explore the potential for treated produced water from energy production to support ecological restoration, using greenhouse and laboratory-scale studies to assess water quality, plant health, and contaminant behavior.

Description

Through a unique partnership with an energy industry leader, this project explores the potential for using treated produced water to support native vegetation and replenish constructed wetlands in Colorado. Produced water—generated during oil and gas extraction—can be treated using advanced methods such as reverse osmosis to remove contaminants. At Water TAP, researchers are conducting controlled greenhouse experiments and laboratory-scale wetland demonstrations to evaluate how different treatment levels affect water quality, plant health, and contaminant behavior. These studies aim to determine whether produced water can safely and effectively support ecological restoration in the future.

Impact

By rigorously testing produced water in a research setting, this project provides critical data to inform future reuse strategies. Findings will help define best practices, reduce reliance on freshwater sources, and lay the groundwork for sustainable restoration approaches—if and when field-scale implementation becomes viable.

Partners

This research is supported through collaboration between Colorado State University and a private sector partner in the energy industry.