Optimization of Wetland Restoration in Relation To Tmdl Compliance Using Mathematical Models

A dynamic coupled 1-dimensional and 2-dimensional hydrodynamic model known as MIKE FLOOD (MF) was developed for the Storm water Treatment Area 2 (STA-2), located in south central Palm Beach County, FL, in collaboration with the South Florida Water Management District. STA-2 contains approximately 6,430 acres of effective treatment area arranged in three parallel flow-ways. Water enters STA-2 from two pump stations and is distributed by the inflow canal across the north end of the treatment cells, and flows via gravity south through the three treatment cells. The hydrodynamic MF model was calibrated against existing monitoring data for the STA-2. Using the calibrated MF model the water quality model ECO Lab was added and applied to study the processes and mechanisms accountable for the removal of phosphorus in the STA-2 in details. The surface water quality model thus comprises of a fully dynamic description of flow and water levels in canals, reservoirs and flood plains combined with simulation of the reaction processes of multicompound systems. The ECO Lab water quality model accounts for surface water mass transport incorporating the pollution source loads and simulates conservation of mass of dissolved or suspended substances. Monitoring of past nutrient removal performance was used to successfully calibrate the nutrient removal efficiencies for STA-2. The model can be used to simulate a number of STA-2 restoration and optimization alternatives and an optimal design of the wetland restoration can be achieved. The MF Ecolab model is an important planning and management tool for the South Florida Water Management District in relation to the ongoing development of the Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) program.