Onsite wastewater systems (OWS), sometimes called septic
systems, are a commonly used method of wastewater treatment in coastal
areas. Most OWS rely on soil-based processes for pollutant removal including
nitrogen transformations, phosphorus absorption, and filtration of fecal
bacteria. Soil type, vadose zone thickness, and setback distances from OWS
to surface waters are factors that influence pollutant treatment efficiency
by OWS. The thickness of the vadose zone and setback distances decrease (and
treatment decreases) when groundwater and surface water elevations increase
in response to tides, wind and rainstorms. Sea level rise and more frequent
intense storm events may create even more challenging circumstances for
management of wastewater in coastal environments. This presentation will
include an overview of recent coastal wastewater management research and
provide an opportunity for discussion about challenges we face moving forward.
Dr. Humphrey earned a B.S. in Ecosystems Assessment and a M.S. in Soil Science from North Carolina State University (NCSU) and a Ph.D. in Coastal Resources Management from East Carolina University (ECU). He worked for three years as an Environmental Health Specialist in NC and seven years as an Area Environmental Agent with the NCSU Cooperative Extension. He has been at ECU for 10 years, where he teaches graduate and undergraduate courses in Water and Wastewater Management. His research interests include onsite wastewater systems, pollutant transport through soils and groundwater, and land use influences on water quality.
CCPO Innovation Research Park Building I 4111 Monarch Way, 3rd Floor Old Dominion University Norfolk, VA 23508 757-683-4940 |