“Living Machine” at Swamp Sanctuary

In southwest Florida, Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary has become one of the state’s hottest tourists destinations. This ancient cypress swamp is a favorite with birdwatchers who flock there year round to see rare birds. A sharp increase in tourists has demanded changes at the Sanctuary, including a need for more toilets at the Visitor’s Center. But, instead of constructing a traditional wastewater treatment facility, Corkscrew staff decided to try something new. They built what’s called a “Living Machine” to deal with the wastewater. Alexis Muellner explains.