A Created Wetland in Northeastern Arizona
Net Evaporation |
Month |
Inches |
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul
Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec |
+.32 -1.33 -375 -6.22
-7.62 -8.49 -4.34 -3.29 -3.74 -2.55 -1.31 +.57
|
TOTAL |
-41.75 |
Jacques Marsh is different than most constructed
wetlands because it doesn't occupy a natural basin or drainageway. The
relatively level site was selected because it has a clay soil of sufficient
depth to provide material for dike construction and a low percolation
rate.
Several hundred soil borings were made to map the
size and thickness of the clay layer. Heavy earth moving equipment performed
the necessary cut and fill to create the dikes and islands which form the
physical features of the marsh.
A pipeline was installed to carry the reclaimed
water which is pumped up hill from the treatment plant to the marsh. Outlets
allow for water to be pumped directly into 5 of the 7 ponds. Interpond concrete
structures allow water to flow from one pond into another. These structures are
equipped with water boards to maintain predetermined water levels in each pond.
This flexibility of managing water levels is a key factor in operating the
marsh.
Pond Sizes |
Pond Number |
Surface Acres |
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Equalization
Basin |
16.36 21.86 18.56
4.66 7.70 10.95 12.08 35.0 |
Total Acres |
127.17 |
The "V" shaped nesting islands were designed to retard wave
erosion. The points of the islands face the prevailing wind and the back sides
provide back water areas for resting waterfowl. The purpose of the islands is
to provide nesting sites which are safe from predators such as skinks and
coyotes. The perimeter of the area was fenced to keep out domestic
livestock.
For more information, please feel free to
contact the USDA Forest Service, Lakeside Ranger District at
928.368.5111 or
you may write us at 2022 W. White Mtn. Blvd., Pinetop-Lakeside, Arizona
85935
White Mountains Online wishes to express
our appreciation to the USDA Forest Service, Lakeside District for providing
this information! This and other articles may be found in print media entitled:
Constructed Wetlands for Wastewater
Treatment and Wildlife Habitat United States Environmental Protection
Agency #EPA832-R-93-005 September 1993
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