KBA Constructs Wetland for Stormwater Treatment, Research and Education
August 2011 – KBA designed and
constructed a multiple use wetland on the campus of the University of Houston –
Clear Lake. The primary purpose of
the wetland was to treat stormwater runoff from approximately 20 acres of campus
grounds and parking lots. The University also uses the wetland as a research
facility to demonstrate the ability of constructed wetlands to improve
stormwater quality. Staff at the Environmental Institute of Houston also use the
wetland as an environmental education facility for school age children.
Additional goals included the creation of wildlife habitat and passive
recreation for the local community.
As the prime contractor, KBA obtained all necessary
permits, and selected and managed subcontractors.
Time and space were substantial constraints in completing this project.
The wetland footprint had to occupy an existing ditch and borrow pond and
earthwork cut and fill were balanced to minimize cost and regulatory issues. KBA
was awarded the project in May of 2011 and the wetland was completed by August
31st, 2011. Additional highlights of the project included cypress log gabions to
pond water in the upper portion of the wetland, interpretive signage, a
community volunteer planting event, a boardwalk with solar lighting and a shaded
canopy, and a solar powered pump to treat water from Horsepen Bayou.
For more information on this topic, please contact Dr.
Margaret Forbes at mforbes@kbaenv.com
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