Performance of partially separate sewer systems and impacts on receiving waters

The aim of this document is to present and discuss the results of the experimental work undertaken in Laje stream, in a section near the village of Oeiras in Portugal. The work was developed with the main objective of characterising stormwater quality in Portuguese drainage systems, and to predict the effects of the performance of partially separate sewer systems on receiving waters. For this purpose, volume and characteristics of stormwater carried by a partially separated sewer system were estimated, both in terms of flow and Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) loads. The study also analyses the eventual implementation of non-conventional solutions, as a way of reducing problems of bacteriological contamination of seawaters. This aspect is particularly important in Portugal, where the population is mainly concentrated in urban areas located down-stream of important drainage basins, close to the coastline. Therefore, sanitary sewer overflows discharging directly into receiving waters are frequent, with possible consequences in terms of bacteriological contamination of bathing areas. Based on experimental research and available data it was possible to collect informations regarding stormwater average COD and overflow coliform loads, and the occurrence of first flush effects.