In 1986, a California city began polishing sewage through constructed marshes; the 307-acre system is now a wildlife sanctuary that has hosted over 300 bird species

In 1986, the Northern California city of Arcata completed an innovative wastewater treatment system that used constructed wetlands to clean sewage while also creating valuable wildlife habitat. The project eventually became part of the Arcata Marsh and Wildlife Sanctuary, a 307-acre natural area that combines wastewater treatment, habitat restoration, recreation and environmental education. Today, the City of Arcata reports that more than 300 bird species have been recorded at the sanctuary, which lies along the Pacific Flyway and provides an important stopover for migratory birds.

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