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Small recirculating filters for nitrogen reduction.
1Anne Arundel County Department of Health, J. Howard Beard Health Services Building, 3 Harry S. Truman Parkway, Annapolis, MD 21401, USA.
Journal of Environmental Health
|September 8, 2001
Summary
Anne Arundel County uses recirculating sand filters to significantly reduce nitrogen pollution from septic systems, protecting the Chesapeake Bay watershed. Modifications and homeowner education have improved the technology
Area of Science:
- Environmental Engineering
- Water Quality Management
- Wastewater Treatment Technologies
Background:
- Nitrogen loading from residential septic systems poses a significant threat to the ecological health of the Chesapeake Bay watershed.
- Traditional septic systems contribute to nitrogen pollution, impacting aquatic ecosystems and water quality.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effectiveness of small recirculating sand filters in reducing nitrogen levels in residential septic system effluent.
- To document modifications and strategies that enhance homeowner acceptance of advanced septic treatment technologies.
Main Methods:
- Implementation and monitoring of small recirculating sand filters in residential septic systems.
- Utilizing alternative filter media and optimizing flow patterns within the sand filters.
- Developing and implementing homeowner education programs regarding septic system maintenance and the benefits of advanced treatment.
Main Results:
- Recirculating sand filters demonstrated a reduction of up to 70% in total nitrogen within septic-tank effluent.
- Modifications to the filters, including alternative media and altered flow patterns, improved performance and homeowner satisfaction.
- Homeowner education initiatives were successful in increasing the acceptance and adoption of these advanced septic systems.
Conclusions:
- Small recirculating sand filters are a viable and effective technology for mitigating nitrogen pollution from septic systems in sensitive watersheds.
- Technological modifications and proactive homeowner engagement are crucial for the successful implementation of advanced onsite wastewater treatment systems.