Constructed Wetlands in Cold Climates

When you think about constructed wetlands as a source of wastewater treatment, you often don't think of Colorado. With an average altitude of about 6,800 feet above sea level, Colorado is the highest state in the union. Roughly three-quarters of the nation's land above 10,000 feet in altitude lies within its borders. The state has 59 mountains 14,000 feet or higher and about 830 mountains between 11,000 and 14,000 feet in elevation. With this wide range in topography also comes a wide range of climate with large, significant seasonal swings in temperature and day to night changes. In fact, in the wintertime in some places in Colorado, the temperature can drop below -30 degrees Fahrenheit. Despite these chilling temperatures, constructed wetlands thrive in many parts of the state, proving that they are not just for the mild climates.