In parched West Texas, drilling for oil has often been easier than finding new sources of water.

For years, communities have been dealing with a diminishing
water supply. Water has become even scarcer during this year's
drought. Now some towns are resorting to a plan that once seemed
unthinkable: treating sewage and sending it back into the tap.

Construction recently began on a $13 million water-reclamation
plant believed to be the first in Texas. And officials have worked
to dispel any fears that people will be drinking their neighbors'
urine.

They say the system will yield clean, safe drinking water. It's
similar to a process that has been used for years in California and
other countries.

Some residents are willing to put aside their squeamishness if
it means having more water.

(Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)