Consultants: Phase 1A study finds capacity limits, recommends studying a single "one water" entity for Washoe County region

Consultants from Raftelis and partner firms presented findings from a Phase 1A feasibility study on regional wastewater and effluent management at a joint Western Regional Water Commission (WRWC) and Northern Nevada Water Planning Commission (NNWPC) meeting on Nov. 5, 2025, in Washoe County. The study identified interrelated challenges — capacity limitations that vary by location, uncertainty about draft state and federal nutrient regulations, and large long-term capital-investment needs — and said those issues, combined with the close operational link between potable water, wastewater, reuse and stormwater, argue for studying more integrated governance.

"This phase was to identify regional wastewater challenges and objectives by having a lot of discussions with all of you folks," said Zach Green, a consultant with Raftelis, who described Phase 1A as a document review and interview-driven effort that included staff and elected officials. Consultants summarized eight interrelated challenge areas and reported strong participation from finance, engineering, operations and elected leaders.

The…