Ten years experience of treating all flows from combined sewerage systems using package plant and constructed wetland combinations

Abstract

Severn Trent Water have been using constructed wetlands since 1991 as part of a flowsheet in which 6 DWF (Dry Weather Flow) is treated by rotating biological contactors (RBCs), and constructed reed beds used to provide both tertiary treatment and stormwater treatment. The company now has over 50 such sites using this flowsheet. Dimensioning and effluent quality achievable is reported and data presented showing the performance of reed beds treating stormwater alone or in admixture with RBC effluent. After 8-10 years of operation the condition of a number of storm reed beds was assessed to determine the remaining asset life. The majority seem likely to achieve at least another five years of operation before further review is needed.