California's 1986 sewage marshes now a 307-acre sanctuary for 300+ bird species

In 1986, the Northern California city of Arcata completed an innovative wastewater treatment system that used constructed wetlands to clean sewage while also creating valuable wildlife habitat. The project eventually became part of the Arcata Marsh and Wildlife Sanctuary, a 307-acre natural area that combines wastewater treatment, habitat restoration, recreation and environmental education. Today, the City of Arcata reports that more than 300 bird species have been recorded at the sanctuary, which lies along the Pacific Flyway and provides an important stopover for migratory birds.Decentralized wetlands replace a costly regional plantArcata's decision to use wetlands for wastewater treatment grew out of strict environmental regulations introduced in the 1970s. At the time, the city's wastewater system discharged treated wastewater into Humboldt Bay. Earlier improvements to the plant had included oxidation ponds in 1958, chlorination facilities in 1968 and dechlorination facilities in 1975.