Wisconsin Mound Soil Absorption System and Area FillPractice Exam

Which factor determines the bed dimensions in a Wisconsin mound system?

1. Soil morphology

2. Linear loading rate

3. Slope of the land

4. Fill material type

The correct answer is: Linear loading rate

The linear loading rate is a critical factor that determines the bed dimensions in a Wisconsin mound system. This rate refers to the amount of wastewater applied per unit area over a given period. It is essential for ensuring that the system is designed to adequately treat the wastewater and manage the infiltrated fluids within the soil. By establishing proper bed dimensions based on the linear loading rate, the system can maintain effective treatment by allowing enough time for the wastewater to interact with the soil and be further purified through biological and physical processes. If the linear loading rate is too high for the bed size, it may exceed the soil's capacity to absorb and treat the effluent, potentially leading to system failure and environmental contamination. While soil morphology, slope of the land, and fill material type do play roles in the overall design and functionality of the mound system, they do not directly dictate the specific dimensions of the bed in accordance with wastewater treatment requirements. Rather, they may influence other aspects of the design, such as the system's location, depth, and suitability for traditional mound configurations.