Water Quality and Economic Criteria for Rural Wastewater and Water Supply Systems

A method of analysis for rural wastewater disposal and water supply alternatives on the basis of water quality and economic criteria is discussed. The major efforts to be undertaken are 1. A set of chemical measurements is statistically analyzed and models for nitrate-nitrogen in groundwater are developed on the basis of land use, soil, and well characteristics. 2. Equations for individual and community wastewater disposal and water supply construction costs are formulated. 3. The above models, along with equations for population growth and distribution, are programmed to form a general interactive computer information system. The program helps to estimate the construction costs associated with wastewater disposal and water supply pipeline systems and groundwater quality under different user projections of land use, population, and economic conditions. A set of general recommendations is outlined on the basis of the major findings.