LAS PLAYITAS CASE STUDY
Building for a sustainable water future in former huerta amidst the desert landscape
The Situation
Location: Las Playitas, Todos Santos
Date: Fall 2025 - Fall 2026
What began with a simple water test post installation of a new water filtration system by another provider with a new-to-the-market product, turned into a year-long consultation with a variety of steps taken to improve upon the water quality coming into the house, and in Summer 2026 to install a grey water irrigation system for the property.
The Process
In the Fall of 2025 I was invited by the client and the new filtration product representative to observe the new home build filtration system installation, and to test and analyze the water.
I walked the site, spoke with the provider and client to understand the intention and property growth, and took samples of the water stored in two 10,000 liter underground cisterns. Testing revealed some contaminants that the previously-installed system could not adequately treat for given the water source to the property. I provided the client with a quote to revise the system and support ongoing water planning, and we agreed to perform the work in stages throughout the year per the client’s request.
Topline Scope
We replaced the filters with highly-graded options and ran another test.
After a few months, we returned for a follow up test and decided with the client to implement a more rigorous water filtration solution including a pre-filter on the incoming fresh water, and revised orientation of the home water filtration system.
We designed and mapped a grey water irrigation system to help grow a future orchard on the property given its soil quality.
In the late summer, we excavated and graded the dirt that had been compacted and dried out over the spring; digging 30” deep trenches for 25 meters, and installing 3” ABS piping and sediment catch boxes for the gravity-fed, grey water system.
The Results
The project began with a consult and a water test, and blossomed into a full property water plan and ongoing water filtration support to meet the client’s needs given the available water sources for the location.
The property line now has individual grey water drainage using gravity that distributes to a perforated manifold, evenly spreading water for plants and trees. Everything was tested and performed as expected using only gravity and the proper slope to maintain flow to reduce and remove potential odor or humidity.
If you want your property's water systems done right, you need to call Drew Reinstein and KYWB. Drew handled a full scope for us—installing and refining a water filtration system, a grey water system, and setting up our water testing and maintenance.
His level of knowledge and thoroughness is unmatched in the region. Absolute professional and I give him my highest recommendation.
— Homeowner, Tyson Gargas