Constructed Wetlands Wastewater Treatment Model Project to Address Wastewater Treatment in the Colonias

1. Purpose and Objectives: This project will demonstrate the Constructed Wetlands type of a wastewater treatment technology in a colonia as provided for in the FY93 Appropriations Act.

2. Funding: On Dec. 22, 1992, a $650,000 grant was awarded to the New Mexico Environmental Department (NMED).

3. Partners: Mesquite Mutual Water Association, NMED

4. Description: The NMED administers the planning, design and construction of this project. EPA provides the performance standards to be achieved by the treatment facility, technical consultation during design and assists NMED in oversight during construction. EPA also provides technical consultation to NMED during the design of the monitoring program and oversight during monitoring.

5. Status: The wetlands has been completed and effluent is now being treated.

6. Results: Since construction of wetlands has just been complete, no results are yet available.

7. U.S. Contacts: Federal: Oscar Cabra, Jr. P.E., EPA Region 6, (214) 665-7182 State: Patrick Oleachea, NMED, (505) 827-2812