Pond systems for the purification and disposal of domestic wastewater from small communities: use, design, operation and maintenance

Abstract

Pond systems are ideally suited for small communities, and for schools, hospitals and other institutions since they are simple and economical to construct, operate and maintain. Numerous pons systems have been designed and commissioned in South Africa, particularly in developing areas. However, these systems have not always been constructed in accordance with the specified criteria and this, together with poor maintenance and operation, has largely been responsible for pond systems falling into disrepute. In recognizing the numerous merits of pond systems, the NIWR is attempting to re-instate them as much needed wastewater purification processes in the South African context. To this end, the guide has been revised in the form of the present manual