Environmental Evaluation of a Quaternary Wastewater Treatment Wetland

Constructed wetlands for wastewater treatment have become a sustainable alternative to environmentally harmful traditional wastewater treatment methods. This case study evaluated the Schroeder Wildlife Sanctuary, a wetland area constructed for removal of nutrients from wastewater. An environmental evaluation of the wetland was completed that addressed three parameters: the water quality of wetland effluent, the avian biodiversity within the sanctuary, and an assessment of community outreach and education initiatives. Water quality testing was conducted using rudimentary LaMotte and Hach testing kits. The data was contrary to the literature and showed no nutrient removal occurring. However, the results were inconclusive because the wetland was lacking well-established vegetation, which was necessary for nutrient removal. Bird data obtained over the past two years by a bird specialist indicated a high degree of biodiversity, likely due to presence of several habitats within the sanctuary. The community outreach and education assessment based on a walkthrough of the sanctuary indicated that community outreach and education initiatives were inadequate and recommendations were given for improvement