Intermittent-Discharge Lagoons for Use in Cold Regions

Lagoon treatment is a common wastewater-treatment option for small communities. In cold regions the design and use of lagoons must consider some unique concerns that impact performance due to cold climates. Many of the concerns can be met by the use of intermittent-discharge lagoons. Presented is a study of intermittent-discharge lagoons in Alberta, Canada. The performance and factors influencing performance were determined by analysis of a large database of effluent quality. Effluent quality was compared to other treatment alternatives. In addition, public concerns and costs involved with lagoon treatment were determined through a survey and compared to other treatment alternatives. The existing data demonstrate that properly designed intermittent-discharge lagoons are capable of producing effluent quality that is superior to the effluent produced by the mechanical treatment facilities in the same region. The survey of operators showed that the vast majority of lagoon facilities do not receive complaints, and the costs of lagoon treatment are shown to be generally more cost-effective than other treatment alternatives.