ABSTRACT
Biochemical oxygen demand removal is performed by both physical and microbiological processes in a wetland. Epiphytes and phytoplankton are major oxygen contributors to the water column. Small- to medium-sized communities have special problems regarding solutions to their wastewater management problems. In wetlands, suspended solids are retained as a consequence of slow water velocities and long residence times. In wetlands, suspended solids are retained as a consequence of slow water velocities and long residence times. Docents trained by the Audubon Society explain the role the wetland habitat plays in attracting birds and mammals and the role the wetlands play in the water quality management of Humboldt Bay. Interpretive programs have proved to be extremely valuable in increasing the awareness of users of the multiple benefits being derived from the multiple functions of the system.
