Water Quality Assessment in the Application of Stormwater Reuse for Irrigating Public Lands

Abstract

Abstract Stormwater reuse for irrigating public lands presents a viable option for reducing potable water demand in urban settings. However, stormwater generally contains high pollutant levels, which may cause adverse effects on public health and the environment. Water quality in a stormwater retention pond in the City of Calgary, Alberta, was examined in order to assess the feasibility of reusing stormwater for irrigation purposes. Field campaigns were conducted in the 2004, 2005, and 2006 irrigation seasons. The water quality data indicated that the pond water quality generally satisfies the requirements for stormwater recycled as irrigation water. Relationships between stormwater quality and climatological variables were investigated using correlation and regression analysis. Their correlations suggest that intermittent rain events contribute to elevated microbial levels and total suspended solids (TSS). Other climatological variables—air temperature, cloud cover, wind speed, and relative humidity—are also correlated with certain water quality parameters including fecal coliform (FC), TSS, nutrients, and conductivity. Formulated regression equations demonstrate good predictions of observed FC and TSS using climatological variables. Results showing stormwater quality as a function of climatological variables imply that climate change might have potential influence on stormwater quality.