Feasibility Study of Cut-Flower Floating Wetlands on Nutrient Removal
Abstract (300 words maximum)
Eutrophication caused by excess nutrients in aquatic environments presents significant ecological challenges. Floating treatment wetlands (FTWs) offer a nature-based solution by leveraging plant uptake and microbial activity to improve water quality. This feasibility study explores the effectiveness of cut-flower FTWs in reducing nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) levels within a controlled greenhouse environment. The experiment is conducted in a tub of water simulating natural conditions, where key parameters such as nutrient concentration, dissolved oxygen (DO) levels, pH stability, and temperature are monitored. The study develops a floating mat prototype has been developed with a nutrient solution added to the system to mimic excess nutrients in stormwater. Water conditions are tested regularly, with nitrate and phosphorus levels analyzed in the lab with test kits. It is anticipated that the addition of flowering plants will gradually decrease nutrient concentrations in the mesocosm water, improving overall water quality. Future research will focus on optimizing plant growth, refining system stability, and preparing for field implementation at Kennesaw Stadium in May. Findings from this study will contribute to the broader understanding of FTWs as a sustainable water treatment strategy.
Academic department under which the project should be listed
SPCEET - Civil and Environmental Engineering
Primary Investigator (PI) Name
Amy Gruss
Feasibility Study of Cut-Flower Floating Wetlands on Nutrient Removal
Eutrophication caused by excess nutrients in aquatic environments presents significant ecological challenges. Floating treatment wetlands (FTWs) offer a nature-based solution by leveraging plant uptake and microbial activity to improve water quality. This feasibility study explores the effectiveness of cut-flower FTWs in reducing nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) levels within a controlled greenhouse environment. The experiment is conducted in a tub of water simulating natural conditions, where key parameters such as nutrient concentration, dissolved oxygen (DO) levels, pH stability, and temperature are monitored. The study develops a floating mat prototype has been developed with a nutrient solution added to the system to mimic excess nutrients in stormwater. Water conditions are tested regularly, with nitrate and phosphorus levels analyzed in the lab with test kits. It is anticipated that the addition of flowering plants will gradually decrease nutrient concentrations in the mesocosm water, improving overall water quality. Future research will focus on optimizing plant growth, refining system stability, and preparing for field implementation at Kennesaw Stadium in May. Findings from this study will contribute to the broader understanding of FTWs as a sustainable water treatment strategy.