Studies designed to measure the effect of effluent on plant life, and to study the enhancement of water quality, show promise. Through the ongoing research at CERF, many new questions have been posed, and future studies promise to provide answers that will benefit the community. Visitors to CERF are treated to an array of cottonwood, willow, ash, sycamore, desert willow, cattail, bulrush, and other species of plants in various stages of growth in the gravel-filled raceways. As the wetlands facility has developed, the increase in vegetation has created a natural habitat for wildlife, including mammals, reptiles, birds, and insects. In an effort to duplicate the most natural environmental conditions, researchers encourage the presence of animals and, as much as possible, avoid interfering with wildlife drawn to the facility.
Tours are by appointment only.
J.A. Thurston, J.A. Falabi, P.M. Watt, and M.M. Karpiscak. Optimization of Artificial Wetland Design for Removal of Indicator Microorganisms and Pathogenic Protozoa. R.D. Wass, R.J. Freitas and S.B. Hopf. Constructed Wetlands in Southern Arizona. Gerba, C.P., J.A. Thurston, J.A. Falabi, P.M. Watt, and M.M. Karpiscak.