Constructed wetlands to treat wastewater from dairy and swine operations: A review

Animal wastewater can be a major contributor to the cultural eutrophication of surface waters, Constructed wetlands are under study as a best management practice to treat animal wastewater from dairy and swine operations. Preliminary results are promising when wetlands are a component of a farm-wide waste management plan, but they are ineffective without pretreatment of the wastewater. The feasibility of constructed wetlands varies with waste characteristics and climate. While the cost of wetland construction is low, the site must be maintained in order for the initial investment in the wetland to be worthwhile. In addition, several design iterations may be necessary before effective treatment is obtained. The design of animal wastewater treatment wetlands is still being researched and a number of the present projects will help provide recommendations for the use of constructed wetlands at animal operations.