Evaluation of Water Quality Parameters (Enterococcus spp., Total Suspended Solids and Specific Conductance) in Harvested Rainwater and Implications for Management and Use

Loading...
Thumbnail Image
Date
Authors
Wooten, Leslie A
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Abstract
Rainwater harvesting (RWH) has recently been reintroduced as both a viable source of water for people worldwide. However, the quality of harvested rainwater is variable and dependent on a number of factors including location, system design, and user maintenance of the system. This study evaluated three water quality parameters - Enterococcus spp. , total suspended solids (TSS), and specific conductance - at two rainwater harvesting systems in the Charleston, SC metropolitan area at different points and times in the RWH systems. Correlations between both the sampling points within the RWH system and the variables of precipitation, preceding dry period, and volume stored within the cistern were determined. Results showed that enterococci and TSS concentrations typically decreased as harvested rainwater moved through and was stored in the system. Use of the stored rainwater significantly decreased enterococci concentrations at the point of use. Precipitation, dry period, stored volume and location affected contaminant presence at the point of use and the effectiveness of the first flush diverter. Practitioners should be aware that the quality of their water could depend on their ability to regularly use harvested water, the location of their system, and the weather patterns in their area. Results from this study add to the growing field of knowledge surrounding the practice of rainwater harvesting that can be used to guide RWH practitioners.
Description
Keywords
Citation