Wetlands As Purifier For Urban Runoff

Residents of the Southern California community of Laguna Niguelhope that a new natural water treatment system will filter unusuallyhigh levels of fecal coliform from their urban runoff, which currentlydoes not meet state water quality standards. With the help ofinternationally recognized consultants, Laguna Niguel has begun toestablish a network of wetlands that will simultaneously treat thepolluted water, provide habitat for numerous species, and have apleasant appearance. It is estimated that it will take two years beforethe natural treatment system is operating at full capacity. In themeantime, runoff is flowing to a standard sewage treatment plant beforemaking its way to the ocean. Researchers believe that runoff from lawns,which includes animal waste and grass clippings, is primarilyresponsible for the presence of fecal coliform.