This wetland operates entirely by gravity flow using almost zero energy for water treatment; the only electricity required is for instrumentation and controls. Since the deicing compounds are nutrient deficient, a small amount of fertilizer is metered into the influent, based on the flow rate and concentration of the runoff. The first stage of the process utilizes six siphon-dosed vertical flow treatment cells with a total area of 1.1 hectares (2.5 acres), followed by six fill-and-drain treatment cells (siphon-drained) with a total area of 0.6 hectares (1.5 acres).
The wetland meets all permit requirements for CBOD5 removal and has won numerous state and national awards for environmental excellence.
