Thesis Abstract

Abstract
This research project aimed to investigate the potential harm of using recycled (reclaimed) water on California native plant species. The study involved conducting experiments to assess the impact of recycled water on the growth, development, and overall health of various native plant species commonly found in California ecosystems. The research methodology included setting up controlled conditions in which native plants were watered exclusively with recycled water to compare their growth with plants watered with fresh, clean water as a control group. The results of the study indicated that the use of recycled water did not significantly harm the California native plant species tested. In fact, in some cases, the plants watered with recycled water showed similar or even better growth performance compared to those watered with clean water. This suggests that, under the conditions of this study, recycled water can be a viable alternative for watering California native plants without causing detrimental effects on their health and development. Several factors may have contributed to the positive outcomes observed in the study. The quality of the recycled water used, including the levels of contaminants and nutrients present, likely played a crucial role in determining its impact on the native plant species. Additionally, the adaptability of California native plants to varying environmental conditions, including water sources, may have contributed to their resilience in the face of potential stressors such as using recycled water. Overall, the findings of this research project provide valuable insights into the compatibility of recycled water with California native plant species. The results suggest that, with proper monitoring and management of water quality, recycled water can be a sustainable option for supporting the growth and conservation of native plant species in California ecosystems. Further research could focus on exploring the long-term effects of using recycled water on native plants, as well as investigating the potential benefits of recycled water in promoting ecological resilience and biodiversity in the face of climate change and water scarcity challenges.

Thesis Overview