Effluent Disposal in a Pristine Environment

Abstract

Recreational facilities and seasonal residences create unusual wastewater treatment problems. In the barrier islands of South Carolina the problem is further complicated by very restrictive water quality discharge regulations. On Fripp Island an activated sludge system has been employed to produce an effluent suitable for land disposal on the golf course. Use of the water in this way is economically attractive and minimizes the costs associated with golf course maintenance. The process can be modified to provide substantial nitrogen for the golf course turf requirements. On Hunting Island a total oxidation system which operates poorly is being replaced with a combined trickling filter and aeration system which should allow maximum flexibility in dealing with highly variable effluent loadings. The effluents from this system will be discharged through a constructive wetland avoiding any surface water discharge. The combination of these facilities results in a highly environmentally satisfactory discharge program. Sludge from the biological treatment operations on both Fripp Island and Hunting Island can be combined to produce sod for use on the golf course. Composting offers an alternative method of sludge disposal which is also environmentally satisfactory.