In three to five sentences, describe what gray water is and how it is being used in the Southwest.

Gray water is water that has been used in sinks, showers, baths, and washing machines, but does not contain human waste. In the Southwest, where water scarcity is a significant issue, gray water is being used as a way to conserve water and reduce strain on municipal water supplies. It is often collected and treated for reuse in irrigation systems for landscaping or agricultural purposes. By using gray water for non-potable purposes, communities in the Southwest are able to decrease their overall water usage and reliance on traditional sources of water.