Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 16, 2026

Continuous Hydrologic and Water Quality Monitoring of Vernal Ponds
Published on: November 13, 2017
Wetland to pond treatment gradients
1Wetland Management Services, 6995 Westbourne Drive, Chelsea, MI 48118-9527, USA. rhkadlec@chartermi.net
Abstract:
This paper presents information on the hydraulic efficiency of wetlands and ponds, and examines the differences and similarities between degrees of mixing, short-circuiting and dead zones. It reports the pollutant removal performance of over 50 wetlands and ponds over the range of macrophyte cover from 100% (densely vegetated wetlands) to 0% (ponds). Not surprisingly, there exist performance continua, characterized by a smooth transition from fully vegetated to unvegetated systems. Factors influencing the choice of ponds, wetlands or combinations are examined. Wetlands are more efficient, and can produce lower TSS. Both wetlands and ponds can provide BOD, FC and ammonia removal, with ponds being better choices at high loading rates.
Related Concept Videos
Microbial Wastewater Treatment
Biological Treatment of Effluent and Waste Water
Gradually Varying Flow
Net Change Theorem
Underflow Gates
Formation of Concentrated Urine

