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Updated: Jul 6, 2026
08:49
Vegetated Treatment Systems for Removing Contaminants Associated with Surface Water Toxicity in Agriculture and Urban Runoff
Published on: May 15, 2017
Water quality performance of a batch-type stormwater detention basin
John R Middleton1, Michael E Barrett
1Center for Research in Water Resources, University of Texas, Austin, TX 78712, USA.
Summary
This study modified a detention basin with an automated valve for stormwater runoff treatment. The enhanced system achieved 91% total suspended solids removal, outperforming conventional methods.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Engineering
- Water Quality Management
- Urban Hydrology
Background:
- Stormwater runoff is a major source of urban water pollution.
- Conventional extended detention basins have limited pollutant removal efficiency.
- Effective stormwater treatment is crucial for protecting receiving water bodies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To modify an extended detention basin for enhanced stormwater runoff treatment.
- To evaluate the effectiveness of an automated valve/controller system for batch treatment.
- To assess the removal of key pollutants including total suspended solids, nutrients, COD, and metals.
Main Methods:
- Development and installation of an automated valve/controller on a detention basin outlet.
- Monitoring of influent and effluent water quality for specified pollutants.
- Statistical analysis of pollutant removal efficiencies.
Main Results:
- Achieved a 91% total suspended solids (TSS) removal efficiency.
- Demonstrated statistically significant removal of total metals, chemical oxygen demand (COD), total nitrogen, and total phosphorus.
- Discharge event mean TSS concentration was recorded at 7 mg/L.
- The modified basin showed superior pollutant removal compared to conventional designs.
Conclusions:
- The automated valve system significantly enhances the pollutant removal capacity of extended detention basins.
- This modified basin offers comparable performance to established treatment systems like sand filters.
- The system provides an adaptable solution for stormwater management and spill containment.
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