A wetlands system consists of a septic tank, lined rock beds containing 12″ of pea gravel, and an overflow lateral field. Aquatic plants are planted in the beds and treat the wastewater with any excess water disposed of in the lateral field. This system functions by initially treating the wastewater in the tank and then delivering the treated water into the bed where perennial plants introduce oxygen into the system. Beneficial microorganisms then digest any organic matter. Additional amounts of water are lost through evaporation, and except in cases of extreme rainfall, the surface of the cell should never appear wet. The wetland system offers space conservation, but does require more homeowner maintenance. Weeding and plant supervision is essential for the system to work properly.