The alternative that we purpose would redirect the flows to reuse both water and nutrients through biological sewage treatment. Thus, by feeding the primarily treated effluent into a series of ponds in which water hyacinths and other aquatic plants will take up the nutrients, the water will eventually reach a level of purity that will permit its use for irrigating recreational areas and its eventual return to the lagoon. The hyacinths can be harvested for cattle feed and thus eventually be returned to the system as well. Such a pattern of water and nutrient flow is more like that of a natural ecosystem, more efficient and economical. The outfall, incidentally, would still be needed for overflows and emergencies.