DURHAM, N.C. -- Researchers from North Carolina State University are working with the city of Durham to see if manmade islands can reduce nitrogen and phosphorus pollution in ponds.
The News & Observer of Raleigh reported that 16 of the green fiberglass mats were deployed last week in stormwater retention ponds that drain into a tributary of Falls Lake, a source of water
for the city of Raleigh.
The mats are about 10 inches thick and can support several people. Wetlands plant sprigs are set into the water through the mats. As the plants grow, the hope is they will draw the excess nitrogen and phosphorus from the water.
Water flowing into and out of the ponds will be tested for a year. The entire project will cost about $180,000.
Information from: The News & Observer
(Copyright 2010 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)
