TITLE:
Employing Constructed Wetlands to Sustainably Manage Nutrient-Bearing Water: A Review with an Emphasis on Soil Behavior and Effluent Nutrient Reduction
AUTHORS:
Michael Aide, Indi Braden, Sven Svenson, Samantha Siemers, Susan Murray
KEYWORDS:
Wetlands, Nitrogen, Phosphorus, Water Quality, Constructed Wetland Engineering Criteria
JOURNAL NAME:
Journal of Geoscience and Environment Protection,
Vol.8 No.9,
September
15,
2020
ABSTRACT: Constructed wetlands are engineered structures designed to simulate processes of natural wetlands to mitigate anthropogenic organic and inorganic materials to shelter soil and water resources. This review focuses on the global interest in constructed wetland application to sustain soil health and water quality and water abundance. Engineering criterion remains a function of nutrient chemistry and load with suitability factors including the local soil and hydrogeology constraints, climate, vegetation selection, the degree of required influent improvement, and reactor types and sizes. Future research needs to focus on: 1) reactor designs criteria, 2) the biology of the microbial community, 3) selection criteria for native vegetation, and 4) criteria to reapply treated water to foster land productivity, especially for region’s experiencing water deficiencies.