Exploration of Hybrid Treatment and Reuse Alternatives for Wastewater and Stormwater in a Municipal Context: An Oklahoma Case Study and Resource Guide

Abstract

The seventh chapter of the S3OK Framework reflects the efforts of the Novel Hybrid Treatment and Reuse Options S3OK working group. This working group chapter examines hybrid treatment and reuse strategies for municipal wastewater and stormwater through a case study of the City of Norman, Oklahoma, developed as part of the NSF EPSCoR S3OK project. Framed around the state’s long-term water security goals and tightening regulatory standards, the chapter explores how engineered systems and nature-based solutions—particularly treatment wetlands—can be integrated to support indirect potable reuse while delivering co-benefits for water quality, nutrient management, and resilience under climate variability. Drawing on mesocosm experiments at the Norman Water Reclamation Facility, the chapter evaluates the performance of multiple wetland designs (free-water-surface, subsurface-flow, and open-water controls) under varying hydraulic retention times, aeration regimes, solar exposure, and seasonal conditions. Results demonstrate the potential for hybrid systems to reduce conventional pollutants and selected contaminants of emerging concern, while highlighting design tradeoffs and the importance of sequential aerobic–anaerobic processes. This chapter further synthesizes complementary advances in advanced oxidation, stormwater bioretention media, and life-cycle sustainability assessment. Importantly, it situates technical innovation within governance realities by addressing regulatory constraints, public trust, and willingness to pay for reuse. This chapter concludes with implementation guidance and a modular resource framework to support municipalities in pursuing scalable, socially sustainable water-reuse pathways.