Desalination projects often fail to become reality because of concentrate disposal and management. As a result, the focus of this study is to determine what concentrate disposal and management options are technically feasible for various regions across the country and what makes these options not only technically feasible, but viable options that can be implemented. The findings of this study will be developed into decision methodology that will be used to balance the technical feasibility with sustainability, reliability, environmental issues, and stakeholder values. Key points of this research include:

• Literature Survey Database. A literature survey will be compiled to develop a searchable database that will summarize the desalination options that may or may not be available for different regions across the country. The options include, technical feasibility, cost implications, regulatory and permitting issues, emerging technologies, and salinity balance.

• Develop Decision Methodology. A decision methodology will be used to assess not only what concentrate disposal options are technically feasible, but also what options are viable to meet the goals across the country. The goals include an evaluation of the water supply options, desalination supply choices, concentrate characterization, concentrate disposal options, environmental impacts, stakeholder values, and local and/or regional priorities.

To assure practical assessment and implementation of the work, a stakeholder workshop will be held to present the decision methodology, identify regional impediments, and share solutions to enhance the viability of concentrate disposal and/or management.