Milwaukee, Wisconsin
June 15, 1997
June 15, 1997
June 18, 1997
2153-5965
8
2.304.1 - 2.304.8
10.18260/1-2--6703
https://peer.asee.org/6703
816
Session 1608
Session 1608
Natural Systems for Wastewater Treatment: Course Material and CD-ROM Development
Thomas F. Hess, Robert F. Rynk (University of Idaho) Shulin Chen, Larry G. King (Washington State University) Ann L. Kenimer (Texas A&M)
INTRODUCTION
Natural systems for wastewater treatment are biological, land-based approaches used to remove pollutants from organic solid wastes and wastewaters. Examples include stabilization ponds and lagoons, artificial wetlands, aquatic plant systems and land treatment systems. Natural systems have gained attention and acceptance in recent years because they integrate waste treatment into the environment in a positive fashion. Recent research and applications of natural systems have generated considerable information for management of potential pollutants from industrial, municipal and agricultural materials.
Natural systems are the most widely used of waste treatment process for agricultural applications. These systems typically require fewer operational personnel, consume less energy and produce less excess biomass than conventional wastewater treatment systems. Where sufficient land of suitable character is available, natural systems are often the most cost-effective option for both construction and operation. Thus, they are better suited for agricultural industries and small rural communities. As the pollution prevention focus moves to nonpoint sources, natural systems will play more important roles in dealing with agricultural waste treatment and water quality management.
Currently students in agricultural, environmental and natural science disciplines have little opportunity to learn about waste management and pollution control. These topics are usually addressed incidentally within general courses. For engineering majors, environmental engineering courses cover waste treatment in depth but natural treatment processes and systems are rarely addressed. Therefore, a timely opportunity exists for a new course that addresses the growing demand for information about natural treatment systems.
Hess, T. F., & Chen, S., & Rynk, R. F., & King, L. G., & Kenimer, A. L. (1997, June), Natural Systems For Wastewater Treatment: Course Material And Cd Rom Development Paper presented at 1997 Annual Conference, Milwaukee, Wisconsin. 10.18260/1-2--6703
ASEE holds the copyright on this document. It may be read by the public free of charge. Authors may archive their work on personal websites or in institutional repositories with the following citation: © 1997 American Society for Engineering Education. Other scholars may excerpt or quote from these materials with the same citation. When excerpting or quoting from Conference Proceedings, authors should, in addition to noting the ASEE copyright, list all the original authors and their institutions and name the host city of the conference. - Last updated April 1, 2015