M.E. Byers, F.S. Young III 1
The need for alternative, sustainable, soil independent, on-site wastewater treatment systems in rural Kentucky has been established. In Kentucky, nearly 2000 on-site constructed wetland systems have been installed. Constructed wetlands generally consist of a lined trench filled with rock, with the water level maintained below the rock surface. The inlet is fed septic tank effluent. Water trickles through the rock bed where benthic micro-organisms contact the flowage and metabolize nutrients. In addition, emergent macrophytes are planted and their metabolism and that of their symbionts contribute to nutrient and pathogen removal. Results from this and a previous study indicated that systems generally have not yielded complete nutrient uptake, but generally have good fecal coliform bacteria reduction potential (overall 95%). Through monitoring four privately owned systems which serve single family dwellings in Franklin County, it was determined that each system had at least one structural flaw. Design characteristics, regulator follow-up, and owner maintenance have tremendous impact on system efficiency. Development of a training manual, distribution of the manual, and effective training is planned to give the private cooperators a sense of ownership and responsibility. Overcoming the human waste stigma, "flush and forget it", must be accomplished. When dealing with biological systems, involvement and understanding by the owner is essential for success. Provided herein is an overview of the constructed wetlands research project, details may be obtained elsewhere.
