The design of the wetland was intended to maximize nutrient and pathogen (fecal coliform) removal. This is accomplished by plant uptake, sediment trapping and enhancing microbial processes, including nitrification and denitrification. The design includes 16 wetland cells alternating with adjacent ponds.
	The sixteen wetland cells were planted with Spartina alternifloria, Spartina patens, Cladium jamaicense and Juncus romerianus or unplanted controls. Each of the wetland cells, excluding four controls, was planted in monoculture of one of the above. The perimeter of each wetland was planted with two rows of Spartina cynosuroides.
						Nitrogen removal, via microbial denitrification in constructed wetlands is increased as vegetation is established and organic carbon deposition increases. Emergent vegetation takes up nitrogen, enhances trapping of sediment which, causes N to be buried and stored in the sediment. Upon completion of the four-year project, it is hoped that at least a 30% reduction in nitrogen entering the wetlands will be achieved.