Rainwater harvesting for non-potable use in gardens: A comparison of runoff water quality from green vs. traditional roofs

Natasha Nicholson, Shirley Elizabeth Clark, Brett V. Long, Julia Spicher, Kelly A. Steele

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contribution

10 Scopus citations

Abstract

Sustainable stormwater management involves ensuring that site runoff not exceed the pre-development peak flow rate and volume, typically accomplished through the use of water retention, infiltration, and reuse onsite through rainwater harvesting. Certain roofing materials, however, may be a pollutant source, thus, influencing the runoff's potential for harvesting. This project focuses on the first year of roof life for several traditional roofs and an extensive green roof. Substantial and significant releases of zinc and copper originated from an uncoated galvanized roof and from two treated woods, respectively. Roof runoff concentrations during early life indicated potential toxicity concerns for zinc and copper both in the water and from the potential buildup in the soil. Periodic elevated nutrient concentrations also were seen. Additionally, periodic spikes in pollutant concentrations after periods of low water concentrations indicated that elevated pollutant levels simply were not a result of washoff from excess preservative remaining on the surface of the material at installation.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Title of host publicationProceedings of World Environmental and Water Resources Congress 2009 - World Environmental and Water Resources Congress 2009
Subtitle of host publicationGreat Rivers
Pages1478-1487
Number of pages10
DOIs
StatePublished - Oct 26 2009
EventWorld Environmental and Water Resources Congress 2009: Great Rivers - Kansas City, MO, United States
Duration: May 17 2009May 21 2009

Publication series

NameProceedings of World Environmental and Water Resources Congress 2009 - World Environmental and Water Resources Congress 2009: Great Rivers
Volume342

Other

OtherWorld Environmental and Water Resources Congress 2009: Great Rivers
Country/TerritoryUnited States
CityKansas City, MO
Period5/17/095/21/09

All Science Journal Classification (ASJC) codes

  • Environmental Science(all)

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