Farmland is extremely valuable in Monterey County. Even while
growers minimize pesticide runoff and fertilizer applications,
downstream water quality is sometimes impaired. Vegetated
treatment systems, including vegetated ditches and constructed
wetlands, are demonstrated to substantially reduce certain
constituents such as nitrate and some pesticides. They do this
without occupying much more space than traditional field drainage
ditches.
A Vegetated Treatment System is a planted area that water
is directed through to improve water quality. These systems
take advantage of the process of phytoremediation, which means
the removal of contaminants from water or soil by plants. For
example, pesticides often adhere to plant surfaces, where degradation
can occur. Microbes living on thin films on plant roots will
take up nutrients such as nitrate. Constructed wetlands are
Vegetated Treatment Systems where the area is flooded or the
soil is saturated for extended periods of time. These systems
are particularly well suited for removing nitrate and certain
pesticides.
Vegetated Treatment Systems must designed carefully to accomplish
water quality goals, and to prevent flooding, elevated water
tables, mosquito and crop pest problems. The RCD is current
developing pilot projects in Monterey County. Contact us
if you have any questions. |
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A
well designed vegetated
treatment wetland removes contaminants such as
nitrates and pesticides from agricultural runoff.
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