Severe droughts in the American South and West are raising new questions about how to ensure millions of people have access to clean, safe water. That’s why several local water systems, including one that provides water to 19 million people in Southern California, are looking to a method of water recycling that brings treated wastewater back into the system. It’s called “direct potable reuse,” but many people have dubbed it “toilet to tap.” Can it succeed despite the ick factor? WSJ’s Alex Ossola visited Los Angeles to find out just how it would work, and how the public is reacting.

Further reading: 

California Could Face Cuts to Colorado River Usage Under Federal Proposal 

California Governor Lifts Most Drought Restrictions on Water Use 

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices