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Project Code [2013-B-PhD-12]

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Project title

Biodiversity richness, water quality management and flood attenuation in natural and constructed wetlands

Primary Funding Agency

Environmental Protection Agency

Co-Funding Organisation(s)

n/a

Lead Organisation

National University of Ireland Galway (NUIG)

Lead Applicant

Mark Healy

Project Abstract

The aim of this project is to compare natural and constructed wetlands in terms of biodiversity richness, water quality management and flood attenuation in the Western River Basin District. Natural wetlands, located in a protected area of the WRBD which does not achieve favourable conservation status and are of poor ecological status, will be monitored at the inlet and outlet over a 3-year study duration. These natural wetlands may be receiving either point discharges of municipal wastewater or diffuse discharges arising from overgrazing or chronic losses arising from over-application of organic and artificial fertilisers. The performance of artificial (constructed) wetlands receiving secondary treated wastewater will also be examined. Comparison of both systems will be in terms of (1) wastewater purification (2) biodiversity and (3) nutrient uptake in vegetation (4) hydraulic loading and flood management.

Grant Approved

�73,500.00

Research Hub

Natural Environment

Research Theme

Sectoral Impacts on Biodiversity

Start Date

13/01/2014

Initial Projected Completion Date

13/01/2017