New Zealand Corrective Maintenance Costs For Green Infrastructure

(Version 1)
User Manual
December 2009
Prepared by Koru Environmental Consultants Ltd. for Landcare Research
COSTnz Model User Manual (V.1)
December 2009
COSTnz Model User Manual
CONTENTS
DEFINITIONS ............................................................................................................. iii 1. INTRODUCTION..................................................................................................1 1.1 Aims of the user guide and how to use it......................................................1 1.2 Overview of the Model ..................................................................................1 1.3 Origins of the Data & Algorithms ..................................................................2 1.3.1 Unit Cost Data ..........................................................................................2 1.3.2 Statistical Relationships for Total Acquisition Costs .................................2 1.3.3 Cleanout Frequencies ..............................................................................5 1.4 Limitations of the Model and Caveats ..........................................................5 LIFE CYCLE COSTING .......................................................................................7 2.1 What is Life Cycle Costing? .........................................................................7 2.2 Life Cycle Costing Parameters .....................................................................7 STORMWATER PONDS .....................................................................................9 3.1 Introduction ...................................................................................................9 3.2 Pond Design and Costing Assumptions .....................................................10 3.3 Total Acquisition Costs (Design & Construction Costs)..............................12 3.4 Maintenance and Decommissioning Costs ................................................14 WETLANDS .......................................................................................................17 4.1 Introduction .................................................................................................17 4.2 Wetland Design and Costing Assumptions ................................................18 4.4 Total Acquisition Costs (Design & Construction Costs)..............................20 4.4 Maintenance and Decommissioning Costs ................................................22 RAIN GARDENS ................................................................................................26 5.1 Introduction .................................................................................................26 5.2 Rain Garden Design and Costing Assumptions .........................................26 5.3 Total Acquisition Costs (Design & Construction Costs)..............................29 5.4 Maintenance and Decommissioning Costs ................................................31 SAND FILTERS .................................................................................................33 6.1 Introduction .................................................................................................33 6.2 Sand Filter Design and Costing Assumptions ............................................33 6.3 Total Acquisition Costs (Design & Construction Costs)..............................36 6.4 Maintenance and Decommissioning Costs ................................................37 INFILTRATION PRACTICES .............................................................................40 7.1 Introduction .................................................................................................40 7.2 Infiltration Design and Costing Assumptions ..............................................40 7.3 Total Acquisition Costs (Design & Construction Costs)..............................42 7.4 Maintenance and Decommissioning Costs ................................................44 SWALES AND FILTER STRIPS ........................................................................47 8.1 Introduction .................................................................................................47 8.2 Swale/ Filter Strip Design and Costing Assumptions .................................47
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8.3 8.4 9
Total Acquisition Costs (Design & Construction Costs)..............................49 Maintenance and Decommissioning Costs ................................................52
RAIN TANKS .....................................................................................................55 9.1 Introduction .................................................................................................55 9.2 Rain Tank Design and Costing Assumptions .............................................55 9.3 Total Acquisition Costs (Design & Construction Costs)..............................57 9.4 Maintenance and Decommissioning Costs ................................................58
10 THE GENERIC MODULE ..................................................................................61 10.1 Introduction .................................................................................................61 10.2 The Generic Design and Costing Assumptions ..........................................61 10.3 Total Acquisition Costs (Design & Construction Costs)..............................64 10.4 Maintenance and Decommissioning Costs ................................................65 11 DISPLAYING AND USING THE RESULTS .......................................................68 11.1 Summary of Displayed Results ..................................................................68 11.2 Reporting Results .......................................................................................69 11.3 Saving and Retrieving Scenarios ...............................................................69 11.4 Exporting and Printing the Results .............................................................70 11.5 User Assistance ...........................................Error! Bookmark not defined. REFERENCES...........................................................................................................72 APPENDIX A..............................................................................................................74
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DEFINITIONS
Corrective Maintenance Costs (CMC): associated with significant alterations to the treatment device/measure. These costs will occur infrequently (e.g., the addition of safety fencing, new landscaping features, new access road, replacing a rain gardens filtration media, etc.). Decommissioning Costs (DC): associated with the complete removal of the treatment device/measure at the end of its life span either due to redundancy or to the need for total replacement (e.g., a wetland may be decommissioned in the future due to inadequate maintenance funds, an in-ground gross pollutant trap may need to be totally replaced every 50 years). Life Cycle Analysis Period (LCAP): The period over which a user will run the life cycle model. Life Cycle Cost: the sum of the acquisition and ownership costs of an asset over its life cycle from design stage, manufacturing, use, and maintenance through to disposal. Life cycle costing (LCC): the process of assessing the cost of a product over its life cycle or portion thereof. Life Span (LS): the functional life of the treatment device/measure in years. Present Value (PV): the value of a stream of benefits or costs when discounted back to the present time (i.e. the sum of money that needs to be spent today to meet all future costs as they arise throughout the life cycle of a facility). Routine Maintenance Costs (RMC): annual costs associated with routine maintenance events (e.g., mowing the grassed area around a pond), including costs associated with relevant administration, inspections, staff training and waste disposal. Total Acquisition Cost (TAC): includes total cost associated with defining the need for the treatment device/measure (e.g., running site-selection processes, feasibility studies, grant application costs), total conceptual, preliminary and detailed design costs, total costs associated with environmental assessment, acquisition of consents and public consultation (following, or as part of, the design process), and total construction costs (including internal and external project management costs and contract management costs). Treated Catchments Area (TCA): the area of the stormwater treatment measures catchment in metres squared (m2). Total Construction Cost (TCC): a component of the TAC; includes costs associated with the construction of the stormwater device, including internal and external project management costs and contract management costs. It does not include those initial maintenance costs that are part of the construction contract and defects liability period.
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Treatment Zone Area (TZA): refers to the area where stormwater is treated. For example, for ponds and wetlands the treatment zone area includes the forebay/inlet pond area as well as the main treatment zone; for rain gardens/bioretention systems the area of the filter can be separately estimated.
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COSTnz Model: User Manual (v.1)
Chapter 1: Introduction
1.
INTRODUCTION
Landcare Research, through the FRST funded Low Impact Urban Design and Development Programme, is investigating the cost of constructing and maintaining stormwater management devices throughout New Zealand. This data has been used to construct the Costing of Stormwater Treatment for New Zealand (COSTnz) Model. The Model will eventually form part of a toolbox that links the performance of treatment devices with the cost implications of constructing and maintaining them. Two of the modules which make up the COSTnz Model have already been developed: stormwater ponds and rain gardens.
1.1
Aims of the user guide and how to use it
This user-guide aims to provide information about the COSTnz Model so that users can understand the process of life cycle costing and how to get the most out of using the Model. It provides information on: life cycle costing and key terminology used; the model and its limitations; the model assumptions and algorithms used; how to use the model; and reporting the model results. Section 1 of the user guide provides background information on the model, origins of the data and algorithms, and on its limitations. Sections 2 10 provide background information to the modules and an explanation of the necessary inputs. Sections of this guide which relate directly to inputting data into the model are preceded by a text box which will look similar to the one below: Example Text Box In addition, Tips or interesting bits of user information are contained within Information Boxes in the relevant sections. Section 11 provides information on using and displaying the results.
1.2
Overview of the Model
The COSTnz Model is a simple, easy-to-use and comprehensive life cycle costing model which allows users to quantify the relative costs of stormwater management devices. The Model consistently allow users to identify and combine acquisition, maintenance and decommissioning costs for each of the stormwater devices in order to determine a life cycle cost. This approach allows consultants, developers and decision-makers to assess the relative performance and cost of different stormwater management devices. The COSTnz Model takes a unit costing approach to life cycle costing in New Zealand. Where sufficient data was available, statistical relationships between the size of a device and the construction cost has been developed. This is, at present, only available in the Pond Module. A unit costing approach is based on the premise that there are standard elements or units involved in the construction and maintenance phases of a device (Ira et al., 2007). These different elements can be costed by engineers using average tender rates. As a result, the construction and
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maintenance activities for each device have been broken down into discrete elements or units. The total acquisition costing page in the Model mimics that of a payment certificate, whilst the maintenance costing page looks similar to a maintenance contract where the specific activities have been itemised. Where practicable, the different modules also allow users to size the stormwater treatment device. The model takes all the information inputted by the user in order to work out the total life cycle cost, discounted life cycle cost, as well as proportions of acquisition and maintenance costs making up the total. A series of pie and bar graphs are used to visually represent the results and aid reporting.
1.3
Origins of the Data & Algorithms
1.3.1 Unit Cost Data

Unit construction cost and unit maintenance cost protocols were developed to ensure that any data collected would be comparable and usable in the Model. The total acquisition cost protocol was developed using payment schedules from constructed devices. This initial protocol was given to a consulting engineering firm for peer review and their comments were included in the final protocol. The final protocol was then given to a New Zealand based contracting firm to price. In addition, two consulting engineering firms assisted in providing cost data based on their experiences. Low, median and high cost estimates were provided which are indicative of the economies of scale related to larger (lower unit cost) or smaller (higher unit cost) projects. Values were checked against the Rawlinsons New Zealand Construction Handbook (Giddens, 2007). The maintenance cost protocol was developed from the maintenance activities and frequencies for ponds and rain gardens given in the ARCs Technical Publication 10, Stormwater Management Devices: Design Guideline (ARC, 2003). The protocol divided the maintenance activities into two broad types routine maintenance and corrective maintenance. Routine maintenance includes activities that occur on a monthly to annual basis (e.g., mowing, inspections after major storms, cleaning out of debris, weed management, making good from vandalism). Corrective maintenance includes activities such as replacement of parts, cleanout of devices, disposal of sediments, etc. that are undertaken over a timeframe longer than 1 year and are generally dependant on the flows and contaminant loads that are being routed through the device. Local authorities, maintenance contractors and consultants from around New Zealand were approached for maintenance cost data. The majority of cost data was obtained from the Auckland Region. This is probably because Auckland currently has the most aggressive stormwater management programme. All seven Aucklandbased local authorities and Transit New Zealands Auckland Office were able to supply maintenance cost data. Four councils from outside the Auckland region (Tauranga City Council, Wellington City Council [Capacity], Nelson City Council and Christchurch City Council) were also able to provide maintenance cost data.
1.3.2 Statistical Relationships for Total Acquisition Costs

In 2006 cost data was collected from local authorities across New Zealand in order to determine whether or not a statistical relationship could be developed (Vesely et al.,
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2006). In summary, a statistical relationship between device size and total acquisition costs (TAC) could only be generated for ponds and wetlands. Ponds A statistical relationship between the size of the pond and total acquisition cost (TAC) was developed for online, offline and dry stormwater ponds (Figure 1). The analysis resulted in a relationship for which the P-value of the regression is smaller than 0.05, and the R2 value of the regression is 0.48 < R2 < 0.79 (strong). Figure 1: TAC ($) plotted against Treatment Zone Area (TZA) (m2) for online wet and other ponds with model prediction curves
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T A C ($)
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0 0 2000 4000 6000 8000 10000 12000 14000 16000
T Z A (m2)
All other ponds Online wet ponds Prediction: All other ponds Prediction: Online wet ponds
The algorithms that were developed and utilised in the Model are: Offline Ponds (including dry ponds) TAC = 6802 TrtZoneArea 0.4436 Online Ponds TAC = 6802 TrtZoneArea 0.4436 1.94
Wetlands Two statistical relationships were developed for wetlands. One determines the relationship between the size of the wetland surface area (in square meters) and the TAC (Figure 2a) whilst the other determines the relationship between the catchment area (in hectares) treated and the TAC (Figure 2b). The R2 values of the regressions are 0.835 and 0.875 respectively, both indicative of a strong relationship. The algorithms that were developed and utilised in the Model are: Wetlands: surface area algorithm TAC = -1524093 + 378008*Ln(TZA)
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Wetlands: catchment area algorithm TAC = 422302 + 42627*CATCH Figure 2a: TAC ($) plotted against Treatment Zone Area (TZA) (m2) for wetlands with model prediction curves
$2,000 $1,800 $1,600 TAC (2007)NZ$'000 $1,400 $1,200 $1,000 $800 $600 $400 $200 $0 0 1000 2000 3000 4000 TZA 5000 6000 7000 8000 9000
Figure 2b: TAC ($) plotted against Contributing Catchment Area (ha) for wetlands with model prediction curves
$2,000 $1,800 $1,600 TAC (2007)NZ$'000 $1,400 $1,200 $1,000 $800 $600 $400 $200 $0 0 5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 Contributing catchment (ha)
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Other Practices Due to a lack of data, no statistical relationships could be developed for sand filters, rain gardens, swales, filter strips, infiltration trenches, rain tanks or the generic model.
1.3.3 Cleanout Frequencies

In order to accurately cost maintenance of any device, the cleanout frequency and the amount of material to be disposed needs to be calculated. Clean out frequency of a pond forebay or rain garden is a function of the sediment load entering the pond and the volume available within the device to allow for deposition. In order to work out how often a maintenance contractor needs to clean out the pond, users need to be able to work out the incoming sediment load. At present, users will need to use the Auckland Regional Council (ARC) Contaminant Load Model to ascertain the sediment load generated by the contributing catchment area. The Contaminant Load Model can be downloaded from the ARCs website at: http://www.arc.govt.nz/environment/water/stormwater/contaminants-in-aucklandstormwater.cfm The Model assumes that a device needs to be cleaned out once 50% of the live storage volume has been taken up by sediment. This figure is based on the recommended percentage at which pond cleanout needs to occur (ARC, 2003). The amount of sediment captured is dependant on the design efficiency of the device. The Model uses a density of sediment of 1.4 g/m3. After the major earth moving stage the density of deposited material is around 1.4 g/m3 to 1.6 g/m3 once the deposited material has settled. However, deposited density increases over time, therefore the model needs to assume a density at the lower end of the range so that maintenance estimations are conservative. The decision to use 1.4 g/m3 density of deposited sediment (by the time maintenance is required) is therefore considered reasonable (pers comm. Timperley and Green, 2007).
1.4
Limitations of the Model and Caveats
Given that the Model is the first of its kind in New Zealand, and that very little real stormwater management cost data is available, the estimation of costs associated with stormwater management devices is currently surrounded by high levels of uncertainty. This can be seen by looking at the wide range of high and low default values for some activities given in the Model. The statistical relationships provided and unit cost values given represent the best available algorithms and values at the time when the costing data was collected (2007). For some devices, available data was very limited. To ensure that the statistical relationships for total acquisition costs are fully understood, Section 1.3.2 provides details of the strength of the relationship (R2 variance) and the significance (p value). The prediction model curves and sample set is also presented (Figures 1 - 3). Unit costs are based on average tender rates as at 2007. The inflation rate used in the model is taken from the Statistics New Zealand website (http://www.stats.govt.nz). The inflation rate is calculated from the Producer Index for Other Construction Activities.
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Unit total acquisition cost data was collected from a New Zealand based contractor. Construction elements costed relate to the actual stormwater device and do not account for piped connections to the stormwater network. Set up costs (i.e. preliminary and general) and earthworking costs are included. With respect to infrastructure, the construction costs provided in the template relate to the point of entry to the device (i.e. the inlet pipe, wingwall or associated inlet structure) to the point of exit (i.e. the pipe outlet; associated outlet structure and erosion protection). Landscaping costs are also included. Land costs are not included as part of the life cycle costing analysis, however, a box is provided where land costs can be entered and reported in the results page of the Model. Unit maintenance cost data was collected from local authority stormwater maintenance contracts. The wide range of default values given in the Model for maintenance costs is indicative of the uncertainty surrounding local government communities on the need for and/ or cost of stormwater device maintenance. Maintenance frequencies are based on theoretical best practice maintenance requirements (ARC, 2003). Cleanout (i.e. desilting and disposal of sediment) of devices is linked to the total suspended solids (TSS) load generated within the contributing catchment area. The Model is unable to calculate the frequency for replacing filter medias as a result of saturation from chemical contaminants such as zinc or copper. It is considered that the Model will be most useful for undertaking a relative comparison of costs of different types of devices. In addition, the Model will aid local authorities to gain an understanding of the required maintenance activities and their associated costs. This will assist in budgeting of maintenance in annual plans and long term council community plans. However, the uncertainty of costs should be kept in mind when undertaking and reporting on the COSTNZ Model results. The data collection undertaken for and development of the COSTnz Model has highlighted that either New Zealand government organizations are unsure of the activities and costs involved with stormwater management, or they do not have good protocols in place to record cost data. As a result, Landcare Research is working on building a web-based protocol for the collection of cost data. This data will then contribute to updating the default values given in the updated versions of the COSTnz Model. Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the integrity of the data and COSTnz Model, the developers of the COSTnz Model do not give any warranty as to the accuracy, completeness, currency or reliability of the information made available via the Model and expressly disclaims (to the maximum extent permitted by law) all liability for any damage or loss resulting from your use of, or reliance on the Model or the information or graphs provided through them.
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Chapter 3: Stormwater Ponds
2.
2.1
LIFE CYCLE COSTING

What is Life Cycle Costing?
A life cycle costing (LCC) approach has been previously used to assess costs associated with stormwater devices in Australia, the United States of America (USA) and the United Kingdom (UK) (Vesely et al., 2006). The Australian/New Zealand Standard 4536:1999 defines LCC as: the process of assessing the cost of a product over its life cycle or portion thereof. The life cycle cost is the sum of the acquisition and ownership costs of an asset over its life cycle from design, manufacturing, usage, and maintenance through to disposal. The consideration of revenues is excluded from LCC. A cradle-to-grave time frame is warranted because future costs associated with the use and ownership of an asset are often greater than the initial acquisition cost and may vary significantly between alternative solutions to a given operational need (Australian National Audit Office, 2001). LCC has a number of benefits and supports a number of applications and analyses (Lampe et al 2005): it allows for an improved understanding of long-term investment requirements; it helps decision-makers make more cost-effective choices at the project scoping phase; it provides for an explicit assessment of long-term risk; it reduces uncertainties and helps local authorities determine appropriate development contributions; and it assists local authorities in their budgeting, reporting and auditing processes. Decision making on the use of low-impact stormwater devices needs quality data on the technical and financial performance of these devices. The financial performance will depend on the sum and distribution over the life cycle of the device of the acquisition and maintenance costs including design, construction, use, maintenance, and disposal. Life cycle costing can be used for structuring and analysing this financial information. Results emanating from a life cycle cost analysis can then be utilized by developers or councils in an evaluation process that incorporates financial, social and environmental assessment criteria (Taylor, 2005). As mentioned previously, the COSTnz Model takes a unit costing approach to LCC. Where sufficient data has been collected (i.e. for ponds), the modules have statistical relationships for Total Acquisition Costs. In any event, the type of life cycle costing information that needs to be entered into the model is the same for all the modules and is described below.
2.2
Life Cycle Costing Parameters
The COSTnz Model uses real costs, and all default cost options given in the model have a base year of 2007. A value in real cost terms is the dollar amount to be paid if the reason for the cost occurred and had to be paid at the base date. Real costs allow current known cost information to be used in the analysis process. Forecast
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changes that are more or less than general price inflation should be incorporated into real cost estimates. The default inflation rate used in the model to ensure all cost data has a base date of 2007 is 4.8%. This relates to the Producer Index given by Statistics New Zealand (http://www.stats.govt.nz) and is determined by looking at the last 7 years of Other Construction Activity rates. While all the default model values have a base date of 2007, a calculator is provided that allows users to inflate or deflate their own costing data from a different year. The model enables users to change select a rate and it is recommended that users make use of the inflation indices provided by Statistics New Zealand. Discounting is used to find the value at the base year of future costs associated with a stormwater device. The Model uses real discount rates - adjusted to eliminate the effects of expected inflation - to discount the real costs. Users can either select one of the default rates (3% or 6%) or input their own. Due to the potentially significant impact of the discount rate on the estimated life cycle cost (e.g., a cost that is accrued 10 years from the base year is reduced by 29% if the discount rate is 3.5% per annum but by 61% if the rate is 10%), sensitivity analysis is recommended using different discount rates. Based on feed-back from users, we are expecting to update the range of discount rates indicated in the Model. Two other key parameters of the LCC analysis are the life span (LS) of the device and the life cycle analysis period (LCAP). The LCAP is the period of time (in years) over which the model will analyse the costs, while the life span is the actual period of time in years over which the device itself will function. The LCAP function is available for the Rain Tank and Generic COSTnz modules as these types of devices have defined lives. For the vegetated types of practices, the LS equates to the LCAP. The LS will differ depending on the type of device, and a range of options has been provided in the model. All unit costs given are excluding GST.
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3.
3.1
STORMWATER PONDS
Introduction
Wet detention ponds are defined as (ARC, 2003): Permanent ponds that have a normal pool of water. These ponds can either be used for water quality control only or in conjunction with extended detention and peak flow control to provide stream channel and flood protection. On the other hand, dry detention ponds are: .permanent ponds that temporarily store runoff to control the peak rate of discharges and provide some water quality treatment. These ponds are normally dry between storm events. The Model can be used to cost both types of ponds, as well as on-line ponds. An online pond is one which is constructed on the bed of a watercourse rather than adjacent to it. On-line ponds alter the geomorphic and biological character of streams and these alterations may adversely impact the streams health, functioning and natural character. Since low impact stormwater management advocates minimizing the development footprint on a receiving system, the preferred approach is to utilize off-line ponds. It is acknowledged that in fully developed urban areas online ponds can be good retrofit solutions for stormwater management and can even provide opportunities for replanting and enhancement of the urban stream.
Plate 1: The Oaks Stormwater Pond on Aucklands North Shore
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3.2
Pond Design and Costing Assumptions
Users will need to use a stormwater design package to design and size their stormwater pond. In addition, users will need to use a contaminant model to ascertain the annual sediment load to be treated by the pond. Inputting the Pond Design Parameters
The first box users need to complete is Pond Type. Using the drop down menu choose the type of pond which will be costed; ie: Offline, Online, or Dry Detention. Once a decision regarding the type of pond has been made, users need to input information relating to the pond design. The following bullet points provide guidance on each of these different pond design parameters. Catchment area draining to the pond - this is the area that will be will treated and/ or attenuated by the pond. Size of the pond this is the surface area or wet pool area. The surface area needs to be provided in m2. Total pond volume users need to calculate the total volume of the pond. This figure (in m3) would comprise the wet pool area only (volume required for attenuation storage is additional to this volume). Volume of forebay it is highly recommended that any new pond being constructed includes a forebay. Forebays are deeper parts of the pond that all inlets flow into. The purpose of the forebay is to capture coarser material which comprises the highest proportion of sediment in terms of total volume. A forebay will assist in reducing maintenance costs as the frequency of cleanout for the main pond area would be reduced. It is recommended that the forebay area should be 15% of the water quality volume. Based on these parameters and once the percentage forebay area has been entered, the model will calculate the actual forebay volume in m3. Alternatively users are able to enter their own forebay volume.
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Annual TSS load - in order to calculate the theoretical cleanout frequency for a pond, the model needs to know how much sediment is coming off the pond catchment area. Users will need to use a contaminant load model to determine the annual total suspended solids (TSS) load. Users can use the ARC Contaminant Load Model to work out the sediment load generated by contributing catchment area. This model can be downloaded from the ARCs website at: http://www.arc.govt.nz/environment/water/stormwater/contaminants-inauckland-stormwater.cfm Alternatively, users can use the C-CALM model developed by NIWA to work out contaminant loads. Efficiency of Pond this is the design efficiency of the pond and should be expressed as a percentage of total suspended solids removed. Annual loads removed once the annual TSS load and pond design parameters have been entered the model will calculate the annual TSS load removed in the forebay and in the main pond. Estimated landscaped area surrounding the pond this is the final parameter which needs to be entered relating to pond design. Users need to estimate the area (in m2) surrounding the pond which will be grassed, landscaped or used for access. This figure is important as it will determine the amount of general routine maintenance for the pond site.
Life Cycle Costing Assumptions
The Base Year is the year in which the data was collected. All the default values in the model are set to a base year of 2007. It is important that the data used is all from the same year. If using data from different years, users need to inflate or deflate the costs manually using the inflation calculator. Enter the life span of the proposed device. This should equate to how long the device will be able to function for if maintained correctly. The drop down menu provide suggested life spans, however users can enter their own life span too. A discount rate of either 3.5 or 6% can be used. If users are doing a long term life cycle costing analysis (i.e. more than 30 years) then 6% should be used as it more accurately accounts for uncertainties in the future. Alternatively, users can enter their own discount rate.
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3.3
Total Acquisition Costs (Design & Construction Costs)
The Model presents two different options for calculating the Total Acquisition Cost of a stormwater pond. The first option utilises the statistical relationship which relates pond size to cost. The statistical relationships are based on the type of pond which is being constructed, i.e. whether the pond is on-line or off-line. The menu provides a selection of low, mean or high cost values for the type of pond that was selected. The second option available to users is to input their own unit cost data. In order to complete the TAC: Unit Cost section of the model the user will need to have undertaken detailed design of the pond. This is because the unit costing works on the premise that individual elements of the construction phase can be costed separately. As a result, each type of construction element is broken down in the model and needs to be completed. The drop down menus for these elements provides a selection of low and high cost values. Users can also input their own data into this template if they already know the cost of the pond. Inputting the Total Acquisition Costs
If users choose the statistical approach to assessing total acquisition costs then the above table applies. Since the type of pond (i.e. online or offline) has already been selected, the Model automatically uses the correct formula and presents a low, mean and high value. Merely choose which value suits the pond costing scenario the best.
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If users have undertaken detailed design and have a good knowledge of the construction elements involved in the pond construction then the unit costing template can be used. The above summary table shows the different categories which need to be priced. In order to enter costs click on the Design and Consenting template. This will bring up a table which allows users to enter all costs associated with the conceptual and detailed design of the pond, consenting costs and project management costs associated with the construction phase. No model default values are provided for this template. Once users have completed this table, click the Earthworks & geotechnical Requirements template. Users can now enter costs associated with site establishment, earthworks and geotechnical requirements for pond construction. High, mean and low model default values are provided. It should be noted that the template covers a wide variety of construction items, so not every field needs to be completed. Only items relevant to the specific pond to be modeled should be completed. Repeat the above step in order to complete the remaining construction templates (i.e. piping and concrete works; structures; landscaping and planting). There may well be items which need to be costed and havent been specified in the unit costing template. As a result users can create another row and enter their own construction cost information in this section. Units, as well as the unit cost information, need to be entered in this table. Remember: if using the unit cost template use rates or cost data from the same year. If the rates are prior to 2007, then inflate the rates to a 2007 value. If using rates post-2007, deflate the rates to a 2007 value (see the Inflation/ Deflation calculator Tip Box). This also enables users to compare the unit cost results with the statistical relationship results. Users can use a different base year if need be, but then they must ensure that the maintenance cost data is for the same base year. TIP BOX
THE INFLATION CALCULATOR You can use the inflation calculator provided to deflate or inflate your own cost to the base date of the model, 2007. To do this: 1. 2. 3. 4. put in your desired inflation rate put in your unit cost put in the year of your cost (e.g. 2001 or 2010) click on inflate or deflate to obtain the base date cost. INFLATE costs prior to 2007 DEFLATE costs post 2007
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3.4
Maintenance and Decommissioning Costs
The maintenance costs in the COSTnz Model have been divided into routine and corrective maintenance activities. Routine maintenance is defined as including those types of activities which occur on a monthly to annual basis (e.g. mowing, inspections after major storms, cleaning out of debris, weed management, making good from vandalism). Corrective maintenance includes activities such as replacement of parts, cleanout of devices, disposal of sediments. These activities are generally undertaken on a longer timeframe and are dependant on the flows and contaminant loads that are being routed through the device. The default maintenance activities and frequencies in the model are based on TP10 (ARC, 2003) and data collected during the COSTnz project. The Model allows for elevated routine maintenance costs for the first 5 years after construction. The unit maintenance cost default values given in the Pond Module are high, mean and low.
Inputting the Maintenance Costs Routine Maintenance Costs
Using the drop down menus, select a unit cost for each of the maintenance activities. Alternatively, users can input their own cost data (remember to ensure it is inflated or deflated to the base year of 2007) and compare this to the model defaults. The Model provides default frequencies for routine maintenance. The routine maintenance costs are annualized in order to obtain an average annual routine maintenance figure. Users may input their own maintenance frequencies. A frequency of 1 means an activity will occur once a year
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whilst a frequency of 12 means that the activity will occur monthly (or twelve times a year). The Model enables users to estimate elevated maintenance costs in the first few years after construction. Users need to complete this question with a yes or no answer and then estimate the percentage increase in the average cost. Corrective Maintenance Costs
Complete the Corrective Maintenance table in the same way as for Routine Maintenance. The Model provides default frequencies for corrective maintenance. The desilting and disposals frequencies are dependant on the amount of TSS material generated by the pond catchment area and efficiency of the pond. As a result, unless users have a known frequency to enter, these frequencies should not be changed. All other frequencies can be amended. The Model will also ask users whether or not they envisage having to clean out the forebay within the first 5 years after construction. Complete this question with a yes or no answer. If yes, the model will then estimate the cost of desilting and disposing of the sediment. It should be noted that the estimate of sediment cleanout is based on the annual sediment load removed in the forebay (as entered in the design spreadsheet). This figure could be higher if there are a large number of untreated, exposed earthwork sites within the catchment. If the cost of this initial cleanout is known then users can add another field and include the cost under the corrective maintenance table. It should be noted that the frequency of a selected activity has an important affect in determining the final total maintenance costs and life cycle costs. Whilst the frequencies provided in the model are based on best practice, care should be taken when selecting and/ or changing the frequencies.
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Inputting the Decommissioning Costs
No default costs have been provided for decommissioning of a device as no data was available. If it is envisaged that the device will be decommissioned then users should enter the estimated cost.
Once users have finished completing the Maintenance Cost data then the model will run and display the results. Results are displayed on a summary page in a tabular and graphical form. They are discussed in greater detail in Section 11 of this Manual.
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Chapter 4: Wetlands
4.
4.1
WETLANDS
Introduction
Wetlands are complex natural shallow water environments that are dominated by hydrophytic (water loving) vegetation (ARC, 2003): Wetlands act like natural tubs storing flood water from overflowed river banks and surface water caught in depressions. Because they act like natural detention basins, they have the ability to reduce peak stormwater flows and reducing flooding in up and downstream catchments. In addition to the attenuation benefits of wetlands, they act as natures natural treatment systems. The plants and organic processes in wetlands treat nutrients and toxicants, and sediment is removed through filtration, settlement and adsorption. Wetlands also provide recreational amenity areas for local communities, landscape enhancement and habitat for local native fauna. They are preferred for stormwater quality treatment and attenuation over open water ponds due to the benefits mentioned above, as well as for reduced safety concerns since they are shallow (on average 0.5m 1m deep) systems.
Plate 2: Waitangi Park Wetland, Wellington
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Chapter 4: Wetlands
4.2
Wetland Design and Costing Assumptions
Users will need to use a stormwater design package to design and size their stormwater wetland. In addition, users will need to use a contaminant model to ascertain the annual sediment load to be treated by the wetland.
Inputting the Wetland Design Parameters
In order for the model to accurately estimate costs, a number of design parameters need to be entered. The following bullet points provide guidance on each of these different wetland design parameters. Catchment area draining to the wetland - this is the area (in hectares) that will be will treated and/ or attenuated by the wetland. Size of the wetland this is the surface area or wet pool area. The surface area needs to be provided in m2. Total wetland volume users need to calculate the total volume of the pond. This figure (in m3) would comprise the wet pool area only (volume required for attenuation storage is additional to this volume). Volume of forebay it is highly recommended that any new wetland being constructed includes a forebay. Forebays are deeper parts of the pond that all inlets flow into. The purpose of the forebay is to capture coarser material which comprises the highest proportion of sediment in terms of total volume. A forebay will assist in reducing maintenance costs as the frequency of cleanout for the main wetland area would be reduced. It is recommended that the forebay area should be 15% of the water quality volume. Based on these parameters and once the percentage forebay area has been entered, the model will calculate the actual forebay volume in m3. Alternatively users are able to enter their own forebay volume. Annual TSS load - in order to calculate the theoretical cleanout frequency for a wetland, the model needs to know how much sediment is coming off the wetland catchment area. Users will need to use a contaminant load model to determine the annual total suspended solids (TSS) load. Users can use the ARC Contaminant Load Model to work out the sediment load
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Chapter 4: Wetlands
generated by contributing catchment area. This model can be downloaded from the ARCs website at: http://www.arc.govt.nz/environment/water/stormwater/contaminants-inauckland-stormwater.cfm Alternatively, users can use the C-CALM model developed by NIWA to work out contaminant loads. Efficiency of wetland this is the design efficiency of the wetland and should be expressed as a percentage of total suspended solids removed. Annual loads removed once the annual TSS load and wetland design parameters have been entered the model will calculate the annual TSS load removed in the forebay and in the main body of the wetland. Estimated landscaped area surrounding the wetland this is the final parameter which needs to be entered relating to wetland design. Users need to estimate the area (in m2) surrounding the wetland which will be grassed, landscaped or used for access. This figure is important as it will determine the amount of general routine maintenance for the wetland site.
The Base Year is the year in which the data was collected. All the default values in the model are set to a base year of 2007. It is important that the data used is all from the same year. If using data from different years, users need to inflate or deflate the costs manually using the inflation calculator. Enter the life span of the proposed device. This should equate to how long the device will be able to function for if maintained correctly. The drop down menu provides suggested life spans, however users can enter their own life span too. A discount rate of either 3.5 or 6% can be used. If users are doing a long term life cycle costing analysis (i.e. more than 30 years) then 6% should be used as it more accurately accounts for uncertainties in the future. Alternatively, users can enter their own discount rate.
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Chapter 4: Wetlands
4.4
The Model presents two different options for calculating the Total Acquisition Cost of a stormwater wetland. The first option utilises the statistical relationships which relate either the wetland surface area to cost or catchment area treated to cost. The menu provides a selection of low, mean or high cost values for both relationships. The second option available to users is to input their own unit cost data. In order to complete the TAC: Unit Cost section of the model the user will need to have undertaken detailed design of the wetland. This is because the unit costing works on the premise that individual elements of the construction phase can be costed separately. As a result, each type of construction element is broken down in the model and needs to be completed. The drop down menus for these elements provide a selection of low and high cost values. Users can also input their own data into this template if they already know the cost of the wetland. Inputting the Total Acquisition Costs
Users should choose which statistical relationship they would like to use to assess the total acquisition costs. Once this choice has been made, the Model automatically uses the correct formula and presents a low, mean and high value. Merely choose which value suits the wetland costing scenario the best. Users should then confirm which statistical formula they are using by answering the question: Would you like to use one of these estimates for your total acquisition costs?
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Chapter 4: Wetlands
If users have undertaken detailed design and have a good knowledge of the construction elements involved in the wetland construction then the unit costing template can be used. The above summary table shows the different categories which need to be priced. In order to enter costs click on the Design and consenting template. This will bring up a table which allows users to enter all costs associated with the conceptual and detailed design of the wetland, consenting costs and project management costs associated with the construction phase. No model default values are provided for this template. Once users have completed this table, click the Earthworks & geotechnical requirements template. Users can now enter costs associated with site establishment, earthworks and geotechnical requirements for wetland construction. High, mean and low model default values are provided. It should be noted that the template covers a wide variety of construction items, so not every field needs to be completed. Only items relevant to the specific wetland to be modeled should be completed. Repeat the above step in order to complete the remaining construction templates (i.e. pipes and inlet structures; outlet structures; landscaping and planting). There may well be items which need to be costed and havent been specified in the unit costing template. As a result users can enter their own construction information by adding additional fields. Units, as well as the unit cost information, need to be entered in this table. Remember: if using the unit cost template use rates or cost data from the same year. If the rates are prior to 2007, then inflate the rates to a 2007 value. If using rates post-2007, deflate the rates to a 2007 value (see the Inflation/ Deflation calculator Tip Box). This also enables users to compare the unit cost results with the statistical relationship results. Users can use a different base year if need be, but then they must ensure that the maintenance cost data is for the same base year.
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Chapter 4: Wetlands
TIP BOX
4.4
The maintenance costs in the COSTnz Model have been divided into routine and corrective maintenance activities. Routine maintenance is defined as including those types of activities which occur on a monthly to annual basis (e.g. mowing, inspections after major storms, cleaning out of debris, weed management, making good from vandalism). Corrective maintenance includes activities such as replacement of parts, cleanout of devices, disposal of sediments. These activities are generally undertaken on a longer timeframe and are dependant on the flows and contaminant loads that are being routed through the device. The default maintenance activities and frequencies in the model are based on TP10 (ARC, 2003) and data collected during the COSTnz project. The Model allows for elevated routine maintenance costs for the first 5 years after construction. The unit maintenance cost default values given in the Wetland Module are high, mean and low.
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Chapter 4: Wetlands
Using the drop down menus, select a unit cost for each of the maintenance activities. Alternatively, users can input their own cost data (remember to ensure it is inflated or deflated to the base year of 2007) and compare this to the model defaults. The Model provides default frequencies for routine maintenance. The routine maintenance costs are annualized in order to obtain an average annual routine maintenance figure. Users may input their own maintenance frequencies. A frequency of 1 means an activity will occur once a year whilst a frequency of 12 means that the activity will occur monthly (or twelve times a year). The Model enables users to estimate elevated maintenance costs in the first few years after construction. Users need to complete this question with a yes or no answer and then estimate the percentage increase in the average cost.
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Chapter 4: Wetlands
Corrective Maintenance Costs
Complete the Corrective Maintenance table in the same way as for Routine Maintenance. The Model provides default frequencies for corrective maintenance. The desilting and disposals frequencies are dependant on the amount of TSS material generated by the wetland catchment area and efficiency of the wetland. As a result, unless users have a known frequency to enter, these frequencies should not be changed. All other frequencies can be amended. The Model will also ask users whether or not they envisage having to clean out the forebay within the first 5 years after construction. Complete this question with a yes or no answer. If yes, the model will then estimate the cost of desilting and disposing of the sediment. It should be noted that the estimate of sediment cleanout is based on the annual sediment load removed in the forebay (as entered in the design spreadsheet). This figure could be higher if there are a large number of untreated, exposed earthwork sites within the catchment. If the cost of this initial cleanout is known then users can add another field and include the cost under the corrective maintenance table. It should be noted that the frequency of a selected activity has an important affect in determining the final total maintenance costs and life cycle costs. Care should be taken when selecting frequencies.
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Chapter 4: Wetlands
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Chapter 5: Rain Gardens
5.
5.1
RAIN GARDENS
Introduction
Rain gardens are filtration devices which (ARC, 2003): ..are generally surface depressions with key elements including a grass filter, a sand/loam soil mixture, shallow ponding, plantings of trees and shrubs, and an underdrain. Rain gardens are also known as biofiltration devices. Biodetention rain gardens include an underdrain and an impermeable liner to ensure water does not filter back into the ground. These types of devices can be used on clay soils. Bioretention rain gardens act as infiltration systems whereby there is no underdrain and water is filtered into the ground. Bioretention rain gardens should only be used in areas with permeable soils.
Plate 3: Rain gardens in the Gulf Harbour subdivision on the Whangaparaoa Peninsula.
5.2
Rain Garden Design and Costing Assumptions
The Model provides users with the ability to design and size rain gardens. The design procedure is based on the sizing requirements of Technical Publication 10 Stormwater Management Devices: Design Guideline Manual (TP10)(ARC, 2003). The sizing requirements for water quality treatment are applicable throughout New Zealand where sediments and toxicants (i.e. metals) are the key contaminants of concern. The hydrological method used is a derivation of the rational formula that can be applied throughout New Zealand when using the NIWA HEARDS data rainfall
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maps (see Appendix A). Users will need to use the ARCs Contaminant Load Model or an equivalent contaminant model to ascertain the annual sediment load to be treated by the rain garden. Inputting the Rain Garden Design Parameters
The following bullet points provide guidance on each of these different rain garden design parameters. Catchment area draining to the rain garden - this is the area that will be treated by the rain garden. Percentage Imperviousness in order to work out how much water is running off the site into the treatment device the model needs to know how much impervious surface area there will be on site. This is expressed as a percentage of the total catchment area. Impervious areas are hard surfaces such as roads, roofs, pathways, etc. Rainfall Users need to enter the rainfall depth for the water quality storm in this cell. The water quality storm is normally defined the 90th percentile storm (i.e. 90% of all storms within that region are the specified rainfall depth). Use the map in Appendix A to determine the rainfall depth.
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Hydraulic conductivity this is the coefficient of permeability. TP10 (ARC, 2003) recommends a rate of 0.3m/day (or 0.025m/hr). Filter Depth this is the planting soil depth. It is recommended that a minimum of 0.8 to 1m planting soil depth should be used. Maximum Drainage Time this is the time to pass the water quality volume through the soil bed. TP10 (ARC, 2003) recommends that 1 day is used for residential areas and up to 1.5 days for non-residential developments. Average height of Water (Depth over Filter) the average height of the water above the soil media is equal to half the maximum depth of ponding water. For example, if your ponded depth is 0.3m then the depth over filter will be 0.15m. It is recommended that the rain garden design allow for a 0.3m ponding depth, however, this figure can be varied. If you already know the size of your rain garden you can enter the design parameters in the User Defined column of the Design Summary Table. Annual TSS load - in order to calculate the theoretical cleanout frequency for a rain garden, the model needs to know how much sediment is coming off the rain garden catchment area. Users will need to use a contaminant load model to determine the annual total suspended solids (TSS) load. Users can use the ARC Contaminant Load Model to work out the sediment load generated by contributing catchment area. This model can be downloaded from the ARCs website at: http://www.arc.govt.nz/environment/water/stormwater/contaminants-inauckland-stormwater.cfm Alternatively, users can use the C-CALM model developed by NIWA to work out contaminant loads. Efficiency of Rain Garden this is the design efficiency of the rain garden and should be expressed as a percentage of total suspended solids removed. Annual loads removed once the annual TSS load and rain garden design parameters have been entered the model will calculate the annual TSS load removed by the rain garden.
Enter the life span of the proposed device. This should equate to how long the device will be able to function for if maintained correctly. The drop down menu provides suggested life spans, however users can enter their own life span too.
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A discount rate of either 3.5 or 6% can be used. If users are doing a long term life cycle costing analysis (i.e. more than 30 years) then 6% should be used as it more accurately accounts for uncertainties in the future. Alternatively, users can enter their own discount rate. The Base Year is the year in which the data was collected. All the default values in the model are set to a base year of 2007. It is important that the data used is all from the same year. If using data from different years, users need to inflate or deflate the costs manually using the inflation calculator.
5.3
The Model enables users to input unit cost data to assess total acquisition costs. In order to complete this section of the Model the user will need to have a detailed knowledge of the rain garden design. This is because the unit costing works on the premise that individual elements of the construction phase can be costed separately. As a result, each type of construction element is broken down in the model and needs to be completed. The drop down menus for these elements provides a selection of low, mean and high cost values. The model also enables users to input their own data into this template if the costs of the rain garden are already known.
Inputting the Total Acquisition Costs
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The above summary table shows the different categories to be costed which make up the total acquisition costs. In order to enter costs click on the Design and consenting template. This will bring up a table which allows you to enter all costs associated with the conceptual and detailed design of the rain garden, consenting costs and project management costs associated with the construction phase. No model default values are provided for this template. Once users have completed this table, click the Earthworks, waterproofing and filter media requirements template. Users can now enter costs associated with site establishment, earthworks and geotechnical requirements of the rain garden construction. Low, mean and high model default values are provided. It should be noted that the template covers a wide variety of construction items, so not every field has to be completed. Only those items relevant to the specific rain garden to be modeled should be completed. Repeat the above step in order to complete the remaining construction templates (i.e. piping and concrete works; landscaping and planting). There may well be items which need to be costed that havent been specified in the unit costing template. As a result users can create additional items and enter their own construction information in this section. Units as well as the unit cost need to be entered in this table. Remember: if using the unit cost template use rates or cost data from the same year. If the rates are prior to 2007, inflate the rates to a 2007 value. If using rates post-2007, deflate the rates to a 2007 value (see the Inflation/ Deflation calculator Tip Box). This also enables users to compare the unit cost results with the statistical relationship results. Users can use a different base year if need be, but then they must ensure that the maintenance cost data is for the same base year.
TIP BOX
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5.4
The maintenance costs in the COSTnz Model have been divided into routine and corrective maintenance activities. Routine maintenance is defined as including those types of activities which occur on a monthly to annual basis (e.g. mowing, inspections after major storms, cleaning out of debris, weed management, making good from vandalism). Corrective maintenance includes activities such as replacement of parts, cleanout of devices, disposal of sediments. These activities are generally undertaken on a longer timeframe and are dependant on the flows and contaminant loads that are being routed through the device. The default maintenance activities and frequencies in the model are based on TP10 (ARC, 2003) and data collected during the COSTnz project. The Model allows for elevated routine maintenance costs for the first 5 years after construction. The unit maintenance cost default values given in the Rain Garden Module are high and low.
Using the drop down menus, select a unit cost for each of the maintenance activities. Alternatively, users can input their own cost data (remember to ensure it is inflated or deflated to the base year of 2007) and compare this to the model defaults. The Model provides default frequencies for routine maintenance. The routine maintenance costs are annualized in order to obtain an average annual routine maintenance figure. Users may input their own maintenance frequencies. A frequency of 1 means an activity will occur once a year whilst a frequency of 12 means that the activity will occur monthly (or twelve times a year).
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The Model assumes that there will be elevated maintenance costs in the first 3 years due to aftercare of plants. Corrective Maintenance Costs
Complete the Corrective Maintenance table in the same way as for Routine Maintenance. The Model provides default frequencies for corrective maintenance. The removal and disposal of sediment frequencies has been based on the amount of TSS material generated by the rain garden catchment area and efficiency of the rain garden. Given that the live storage area of a rain garden is relatively small, the frequency suggested is quite conservative. If users have a known frequency of cleanout or are able to calculate the frequency from the TSS load removed, then the frequency should be amended. The replanting frequency is obviously related to the cleanout frequency. As a result, unless users have a known frequency to enter, these frequencies should not be changed. All other frequencies can be amended. It should be noted that the frequency of a selected activity has an important affect in determining the final total maintenance costs and life cycle costs. Whilst the frequencies provided in the Model are based on best practice, care should be taken when selecting and/ or changing the frequencies.
Decommissioning Costs
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Chapter 6: Sand Filters
6
6.1
SAND FILTERS
Introduction
Sand filters are filtration devices that use a sand, peat or compost mixture to filter out contaminants. They are suited for small impervious areas where water quality treatment is the key objective. Sand filters can be either underground or on the surface (ARC, 2003).
Plate 4: A sand filter treating copper from a boat maintenance yard.
6.2
Sand Filter Design and Costing Assumptions
The Model provides users with the ability to design and size sand filters. The design procedure is based on the sizing requirements of Technical Publication 10 Stormwater Management Devices: Design Guideline Manual (TP10)(ARC, 2003). The sizing requirements for water quality treatment are applicable throughout New Zealand where sediments and toxicants (i.e. metals) are the key contaminants of concern. The hydrological method used is a derivation of the rational formula that can be applied throughout New Zealand when using the NIWA HEARDS data rainfall maps (see Appendix A).
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Inputting the Sand Filter Design Parameters
The following bullet points provide guidance on each of these different sand filter design parameters. Catchment area draining to the sand filter - this is the area that will be treated by the sand filter. Percentage Imperviousness in order to work out how much water is running off the site into the treatment device the model needs to know how much impervious surface area there will be on site. This is expressed as a percentage of the total catchment area. Impervious areas are hard surfaces such as roads, roofs, pathways, etc. Rainfall (First Flush Water Quality Storm Depth) Users need to enter the rainfall depth for the water quality storm in this cell. The water quality storm is normally defined as the 90th percentile storm (i.e. 90% of all storms within that region are the specified rainfall depth). Use the map in Appendix A to determine the rainfall depth.
Hydraulic conductivity this is the coefficient of permeability. TP10 (ARC, 2003) recommends a rate of 0.42m/day.
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Filter Depth this is the sand media depth. If possible the sand depth should be a minimum of 400mm. Maximum Drainage Time this is the time to pass the water quality volume through the soil bed. A maximum drainage time of 2 days should be used (ARC, 2003). Average height of Water (Depth over Filter) the average height of the water above the sand media is equal to half the maximum depth of ponding water. For example, if your ponded depth is 0.3m then the depth over filter will be 0.15m. Inlet Area users also need to estimate the size of the sedimentation area. This area should be large enough to incorporate any additional live storage and should be a minimum size of 25% of the filtration chamber. Efficiency of Sand Filter this is the design efficiency of the rain garden and should be expressed as a percentage of total suspended solids removed. Annual TSS load - in order to calculate the theoretical cleanout frequency for the sand filter, the model needs to know how much sediment is coming off the catchment area. Users will need to use a contaminant load model to determine the annual total suspended solids (TSS) load. Users can use the ARC Contaminant Load Model to work out the sediment load generated by contributing catchment area. This model can be downloaded from the ARCs website at: http://www.arc.govt.nz/environment/water/stormwater/contaminants-inauckland-stormwater.cfm Alternatively, users can use the C-CALM model developed by NIWA to work out contaminant loads.
The Base Year is the year in which the data was collected. All the default values in the model are set to a base year of 2007. It is important that the data used is all from the same year. If using data from different years, users need to inflate or deflate the costs manually using the inflation calculator. Enter the life span of the proposed device. This should equate to how long the device will be able to function for if maintained correctly. The drop down menu provides suggested life spans, however users can enter their own life span too. A discount rate of either 3.5 or 6% can be used. If users are doing a long term life cycle costing analysis (i.e. more than 30 years) then 6% should be
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used as it more accurately accounts for uncertainties in the future. Alternatively, users can enter their own discount rate.
6.3
The Model allows to users is to input their own unit cost data. In order to complete the TAC: Unit Cost section of the Model the user will need to have undertaken detailed design of the sand filter. This is because the unit costing works on the premise that individual elements of the construction phase can be costed separately. As a result, each type of construction element is broken down in the model and needs to be completed. The drop down menus for these elements provides a selection of low, mean and high cost values. Users can also input their own data into this template if they already know the cost of the sand filter.
The above summary table shows the different categories which need to be priced. In order to enter costs click on the Design and consenting template. This will bring up a table which allows users to enter all costs associated with the conceptual and detailed design of the pond, consenting costs and project management costs associated with the construction phase. No model default values are provided for this template. Once users have completed this table, click the Earthworks & geotechnical requirements template. Users can now enter costs associated with site
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establishment, earthworks and geotechnical requirements for sand filter construction. High, mean and low model default values are provided. It should be noted that the template covers a wide variety of construction items, so not every field needs to be completed. Only items relevant to the specific sand filter to be modeled should be completed. Repeat the above step in order to complete the remaining construction templates (i.e. pipes and inlet structures; outlet structures and reinstatement). There may well be items which need to be costed and havent been specified in the unit costing template. As a result users can enter their own construction information by adding additional fields. Units, as well as the unit cost information, need to be entered in these fields. Remember: if using the unit cost template use rates or cost data from the same year. If the rates are prior to 2007, then inflate the rates to a 2007 value. If using rates post-2007, deflate the rates to a 2007 value (see the Inflation/ Deflation calculator Tip Box). This also enables users to compare the unit cost results with the statistical relationship results. Users can use a different base year if need be, but then they must ensure that the maintenance cost data is for the same base year.
TIP BOX
6.4
The maintenance costs in the COSTnz Model have been divided into routine and corrective maintenance activities.
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Routine maintenance is defined as including those types of activities which occur on a monthly to annual basis (e.g., inspections after major storms, cleaning out the sedimentation chamber, making good from vandalism, etc). Corrective maintenance includes activities such as replacement of parts, cleanout of devices, disposal of sediments. These activities are generally undertaken on a longer timeframe and are dependant on the flows and contaminant loads that are being routed through the device. The default maintenance activities and frequencies in the model are based on TP10 (ARC, 2003) and data collected during the COSTnz project. The Model allows for elevated routine maintenance costs for the first 3 years after construction. The unit maintenance cost default values given in the Sand Filter Module are high, mean and low. Inputting the Maintenance Costs Routine Maintenance Costs
Using the drop down menus, select a unit cost for each of the maintenance activities. Alternatively, users can input their own cost data (remember to ensure it is inflated or deflated to the base year of 2007) and compare this to the model defaults. The Model provides default frequencies for routine maintenance. The routine maintenance costs are annualized in order to obtain an average annual routine maintenance figure. Users may input their own maintenance frequencies. A frequency of 1 means an activity will occur once a year whilst a frequency of 12 means that the activity will occur monthly (or twelve times a year). The Model enables users to estimate elevated maintenance costs in the first few years after construction. Users need to complete this question with a yes or no answer and then estimate the percentage increase in the average cost.
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Complete the Corrective Maintenance table in the same way as for Routine Maintenance. The Model provides default frequencies for corrective maintenance. The frequency for the removal and disposal of sediment from the sedimentation chamber frequencies has been based on the amount of TSS material generated by the catchment area and efficiency of the sand filter. If users have a known frequency of cleanout or are able to calculate the frequency from the TSS load removed, then the frequency can be amended. As a result, unless users have a known frequency to enter, these frequencies should not be changed. All other frequencies can be amended. It should be noted that the frequency of a selected activity has an important affect in determining the final total maintenance costs and life cycle costs. Whilst the frequencies provided in the model are based on best practice, care should be taken when selecting and/ or changing the frequencies.
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Chapter 7: Infiltration Practices
7
7.1
INFILTRATION PRACTICES
Introduction
Infiltration practices rely on the natural soil media to divert stormwater away from surface runoff into the underlying soil: They are therefore excellent practices for reducing the total volume of stormwater runoff discharged as well as augmenting low streamflows. There are many different types of infiltration practices, namely, trenches, dry wells and permeable paving (ARC, 2003). This module focuses on the design and costing of infiltration trenches, however, it can be manipulated to cost the other aforementioned devices.
Plate 5: Permeable Paving is one type of infiltration practice.
7.2
Infiltration Design and Costing Assumptions
The Model provides users with the ability to design and size infiltration practices. The design procedure is based on the sizing an infiltration trench and on the requirements of Technical Publication 10 Stormwater Management Devices: Design Guideline Manual (TP10)(ARC, 2003). The sizing requirements for water quality treatment are applicable throughout New Zealand where sediments and toxicants (i.e. metals) are the key contaminants of concern. The hydrological method used is a derivation of the rational formula that can be applied throughout New Zealand when using the NIWA HEARDS data rainfall maps (see Appendix A).
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Inputting the Infiltration Trench Design Parameters
The following bullet points provide guidance on each of these different infiltration trench design parameters. Catchment area draining to the infiltration trench - this is the area that will be treated by the trench. Percentage Imperviousness in order to work out how much water is running off the site into the treatment device the model needs to know how much impervious surface area there will be on site. This is expressed as a percentage of the total catchment area. Impervious areas are hard surfaces such as roads, roofs, pathways, etc. Rainfall (First Flush Water Quality Storm Depth) Users need to enter the rainfall depth for the water quality storm in this cell. The water quality storm is normally defined the 90th percentile storm (i.e. 90% of all storms within that region are the specified rainfall depth). Use the map in Appendix A to determine the rainfall depth. Measured Percolation Rate this figure determines how quickly the water drains through the infiltration trench. It needs to be determined by field testing the soils for their permeability. The design percolation rate is half of the measured percolation rate. This factor of safety is built into the design to reduce blockage and maintenance requirements. Hydraulic Gradient the hydraulic gradient of an infiltration trench is assumed to be 1 (unless otherwise measured).
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Empting Time also known as time to drain, this is the time to pass the water quality volume through the soil bed. It is recommended that a maximum value of 48 hours is used to ensure that standing water does not cause the build-up of algae which could cause clogging of the system. Void Ratio this is the space ratio of stone within the trench. Normally scoria has a void ration of 0.5, whilst stone has a void ration of 0.35. The Model is now able to work out the surface area, volume and minimum depth of the infiltration trench. Efficiency of Infiltration Trench this is the design efficiency of the trench and should be expressed as a percentage of total suspended solids removed. Grassed Surface Area Surrounding the Device users need to estimate the area (in m2) surrounding the trench which will be grassed (if applicable). This figure is important as it will determine the amount of mowing and/ or general routine maintenance for the trench.
7.3
The Model enables users to input unit cost data to assess total acquisition costs. In order to complete this section of the Model the user will need to have a detailed knowledge of the infiltration design. This is because the unit costing works on the premise that individual elements of the construction phase can be costed separately.
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As a result, each type of construction element is broken down in the model and needs to be completed. The drop down menus for these elements provides a selection of low, mean and high cost values. The model also enables users to input their own data into this template if the costs of the infiltration practice are already known. Inputting the Total Acquisition Costs
The above summary table shows the different categories to be costed which make up the total acquisition costs. In order to enter costs click on the Design and consenting template. This will bring up a table which allows you to enter all costs associated with the conceptual and detailed design of the infiltration practice, consenting costs and project management costs associated with the construction phase. No model default values are provided for this template. Once users have completed this table, click the Earthworks & geotechnical requirements template. Users can now enter costs associated with site establishment, earthworks and geotechnical requirements of the infiltration practice construction. Low, mean and high model default values are provided. It should be noted that the template covers a wide variety of construction items, so not every field has to be completed. Only those items relevant to the specific infiltration practice to be modeled should be completed.
Repeat the above step in order to complete the remaining construction templates (i.e. pipes and structures; landscaping). There may well be items which need to be costed that havent been specified in the unit costing template. As a result additional fields have been created where users can enter their own construction information. Units as well as the unit cost need to be entered in these fields.
Remember: if using the unit cost template use rates or cost data from the same year. If the rates are prior to 2007, inflate the rates to a 2007 value. If using rates post-2007, deflate the rates to a 2007 value (see the Inflation/ Deflation calculator Tip Box). This also enables users to compare the unit cost results with the statistical relationship results. Users can use a different base year if need be, but then they must ensure that the maintenance cost data is for the same base year.
TIP BOX
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7.4
The maintenance costs in the COSTnz Model have been divided into routine and corrective maintenance activities. Routine maintenance is defined as including those types of activities which occur on a monthly to annual basis (e.g. inspections after major storms, cleaning out of debris, weed management, making good from vandalism). Corrective maintenance includes activities such as replacement of parts, cleanout of devices, disposal of sediments. These activities are generally undertaken on a longer timeframe and are dependant on the flows and contaminant loads that are being routed through the device. The default maintenance activities and frequencies in the model are based on TP10 (ARC, 2003) and data collected during the COSTnz project. The Model allows for elevated routine maintenance costs for the first 3 years after construction. The unit maintenance cost default values given in the Infiltration Module are high, mean and low.
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Using the drop down menus, select a unit cost for each of the maintenance activities. Alternatively, users can input their own cost data (remember to ensure it is inflated or deflated to the base year of 2007) and compare this to the Model defaults. The Model provides default frequencies for routine maintenance. The routine maintenance costs are annualized in order to obtain an average annual routine maintenance figure. Users may input their own maintenance frequencies. A frequency of 1 means an activity will occur once a year whilst a frequency of 12 means that the activity will occur monthly (or twelve times a year). The Model asks whether or not users would like to include an elevated maintenance cost in the first 3 years to account for increased maintenance as a result of construction sediment. Corrective Maintenance Costs
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Complete the Corrective Maintenance table in the same way as for Routine Maintenance. It should be noted that the frequency of a selected activity has an important affect in determining the final total maintenance costs and life cycle costs. Whilst the frequencies provided in the Model are based on best practice, care should be taken when selecting and/ or changing the frequencies.
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Chapter 8: Swales & Filter Strips
8
8.1
SWALES AND FILTER STRIPS

Introduction
Swales and filter strips are a suite of practices which rely on the use of vegetation (grasses) to slow stormwater runoff and provide treatment through infiltration, filtration, adsorption and biological uptake. The runoff needs to remain diffuse, slow and as a shallow depth of flow (ARC, 2003). Whilst COSTnz models the two devices as two separate modules, the principles and functions of the modules are similar and are thus covered under one chapter in this user manual. The swale module is shown here, but is directly applicable to filter strips.
Plate 6: Swales on Goodlands Estate, a countryside living subdivision north of Auckland.
8.2
Swale/ Filter Strip Design and Costing Assumptions
The Model provides users with the ability to design and size swales and filterstrips. The design procedure is based on the sizing requirements of Technical Publication 10 Stormwater Management Devices: Design Guideline Manual (TP10)(ARC, 2003). The sizing requirements for water quality treatment are applicable throughout New Zealand where sediments and toxicants (i.e. metals) are the key contaminants of concern. The hydrological method used is the rational formula.
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Inputting the Swale/ Filter Strip Design Parameters
The following bullet points provide guidance on each of the different swale/ filter strip design parameters. Users will notice when loading up the swale and filter strip models that there are values within the design input column. This is because the calculations for swales and filter strips report an error when some of the fields are set to zero (there is a circular reference in the algorithms). Please overwrite the numbers in the input fields with values that relate to your own site and design. The model uses the rational formula to determine the velocity of the water quality storm to be treated. Catchment area draining to the swale (filter strip) - this is the area that will be treated by the swale or filter strip. Runoff Coefficient (C) this is a factor which relates to the impervious coverage of the catchment area. A runoff coefficient of 0.9 is usually used for 100% impervious areas. Where there is a mix of pervious and impervious areas the runoff coefficient can be worked out using this formula: C = 0.3 + 0.6(%impervious cover/100) Rainfall Intensity Users need to enter the rainfall intensity for the water quality storm in this cell. A one hour two year average recurrence interval storm event can be used for the rainfall intensity. Channel Slope this is the slope of the swale given as a percentage. Depth this is the depth of flow of the water quality storm within the swale itself. The depth of flow should not exceed the proposed vegetation height (it normally ranges between 0.05m and 0.15m).
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Side Slopes the Model designs the swale using a trapezoidal shape. The side slopes are therefore an important design component. A side slope of 1:4 is recommended and they should not be steeper than 1:3. This input is not required for the Filter Strip module. Minimum allowable travel time this is the average time that it will take the water to flow from the top to the bottom of the swale. Best practice recommends a minimum residence time of 9 minutes. The Model is now able to work out the length of the swale (or filter strip). Maximum flow this is an additional check that users may want to do to ensure that the maximum flow rate does not exceed erosive velocities of 0.25m/s.
8.3
The Model enables users to input unit cost data to assess total acquisition costs. In order to complete this section of the Model the user will need to have a detailed knowledge of the swale or filter strip design. This is because the unit costing works on the premise that individual elements of the construction phase can be costed separately. As a result, each type of construction element is broken down in the model and needs to be completed. The drop down menus for these elements provides a selection of low, mean and high cost values. The model also enables
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users to input their own data into this template if the costs of the swale or filter strip are already known.
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The above summary table shows the different categories to be costed which make up the total acquisition costs. In order to enter costs click on the Design and consenting template. This will bring up a table which allows you to enter all costs associated with the conceptual and detailed design of the swale or filter strip, consenting costs and project management costs associated with the construction phase. No model default values are provided for this template. Once users have completed this table, click the Earthworks & construction template. Users can now enter costs associated with site establishment, earthworks and geotechnical requirements of the swale or filter strip construction. Low, mean and high model default values are provided. It should be noted that the template covers a wide variety of construction items, so not every field has to be completed. Only those items relevant to the specific filter strip or swale to be modeled should be completed. Repeat the above step in order to complete the remaining construction templates (i.e. pipes and structures; landscaping and planting). There may well be items which need to be costed that havent been specified in the unit costing template. As a result users can enter their own construction information in this section by adding an addition line(s). Units as well as the unit cost need to be entered in this table. Remember: if using the unit cost template use rates or cost data from the same year. If the rates are prior to 2007, inflate the rates to a 2007 value. If using rates post-2007, deflate the rates to a 2007 value (see the Inflation/
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Deflation calculator Tip Box). This also enables users to compare the unit cost results with the statistical relationship results. Users can use a different base year if need be, but then they must ensure that the maintenance cost data is for the same base year.
TIP BOX
8.4
The maintenance costs in the COSTnz Model have been divided into routine and corrective maintenance activities. Routine maintenance is defined as including those types of activities which occur on a monthly to annual basis (e.g. inspections after major storms, cleaning out of debris, weed management, making good from vandalism). Corrective maintenance includes activities such as replacement of parts, cleanout of devices, disposal of sediments. These activities are generally undertaken on a longer timeframe and are dependant on the flows and contaminant loads that are being routed through the device. The default maintenance activities and frequencies in the model are based on TP10 (ARC, 2003) and data collected during the COSTnz project. The Model allows for elevated routine maintenance costs for the first 3 years after construction. The unit maintenance cost default values given in the Swale and Filter Strip modules are high, mean and low.
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Using the drop down menus, select a unit cost for each of the maintenance activities. Alternatively, users can input their own cost data (remember to ensure it is inflated or deflated to the base year of 2007) and compare this to the Model defaults. The Model provides default frequencies for routine maintenance. The routine maintenance costs are annualized in order to obtain an average annual routine maintenance figure. Users may input their own maintenance frequencies. A frequency of 1 means an activity will occur once a year whilst a frequency of 12 means that the activity will occur monthly (or twelve times a year). The Model assumes that there will be elevated maintenance costs in the first 3 years to prevent clogging from construction sediment and assist with the initial aftercare of plants (if applicable). Corrective Maintenance Costs
Complete the Corrective Maintenance table in the same way as for Routine Maintenance.
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It should be noted that the estimated sediment load for cleanout relates to the frequency specified under the corrective maintenance table. In this way the model can cost how much sediment will be in the swale or filter strip at the time of removal. It should be noted that the frequency of a selected activity has an important affect in determining the final total maintenance costs and life cycle costs. Whilst the frequencies provided in the Model are based on best practice, care should be taken when selecting and/ or changing the frequencies.
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Chapter 9: Rain Tanks
9
9.1
RAIN TANKS
Introduction
Rain tanks are generally used at the single site level to provide for water re-use and stormwater detention. As a result, they are primarily a water quantity control practice. Rain tanks come in all shapes and sizes, but they need to be carefully sized to ensure that there is sufficient space for the desired level of water re-use and/ or attenuation.
Plate 7: A rain tank being used for water supply and attenuation in a rural residential subdivision.
9.2
Rain Tank Design and Costing Assumptions
Users will need to use their local design guideline to design and size their rain tanks. The main reason for this is that rain tanks require a good understanding of the local rainfall conditions, roof size, as well as the desired level of reuse or attenuation.
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Inputting the Rain Tank Design Parameters
The following bullet points provide guidance on each of the different rain tank design parameters. Roof/ Catchment area draining to the tank - this is the area from which water will discharge and be captured in the rain tank. Size of Tank this is the size of the tank (or tanks) in litres. Height & Width of Tank these tank dimensions need to be completed as they are important because they relate directly to the construction cost (especially for underground tanks). Number of pumps if the tank is to be used for water reuse there may be a need for a water pump. The number of pumps is important both from a construction and maintenance standpoint.
The Base Year is the year in which the data was collected. All the default values in the model are set to a base year of 2007. It is important that the data used is all from the same year. If using data from different years, users need to inflate or deflate the costs manually using the inflation calculator. Enter the life span of the rain tank. This should equate to how long the tank will be able to function for if maintained correctly. The drop down menu provides suggested life spans, however users can enter their own life span too. In the case of a prefabricated tank, the life span should equate to the manufacturers recommendations. A discount rate of either 3.5 or 6% can be used. If users are doing a long term life cycle costing analysis (i.e. more than 30 years) then 6% should be used as it more accurately accounts for uncertainties in the future. Alternatively, users can enter their own discount rate.
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Enter the analysis period over which the model should run. This needs to either be the same as or longer than the life span.
9.3
The Model enables users to input unit cost data to assess total acquisition costs. In order to complete this section of the Model the user will need to have a detailed knowledge of the rain tank design. This is because the unit costing works on the premise that individual elements of the construction phase can be costed separately. As a result, each type of construction element is broken down in the model and needs to be completed. The drop down menus for these elements provides a selection of low, mean and high cost values. The model also enables users to input their own data into this template if the costs of the rain tank are already known. Inputting the Total Acquisition Costs
The above summary table shows the different categories to be costed which make up the total acquisition costs. In order to enter costs click on the Design and consenting template. This will bring up a table which allows you to enter all costs associated with the conceptual and detailed design of the rain tank, consenting costs and project management costs associated with the construction phase. No model default values are provided for this template. Once users have completed this table, click the Earthworks & installation requirements templates. Users can now enter costs associated with site
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establishment, earthworks and installation requirements of the rain tank construction. Low, mean and high model default values are provided. It should be noted that the template covers a wide variety of construction items, so not every field has to be completed. Only those items relevant to the specific rain tank to be modeled should be completed. Repeat the above step in order to complete the remaining construction templates (i.e. connections and plumbing, reinstatement). There may well be items which need to be costed that havent been specified in the unit costing template. As a result users can enter their own construction information by adding additional fields. Units as well as the unit cost need to be entered in these fields. Remember: if using the unit cost template use rates or cost data from the same year. If the rates are prior to 2007, inflate the rates to a 2007 value. If using rates post-2007, deflate the rates to a 2007 value (see the Inflation/ Deflation calculator Tip Box). This also enables users to compare the unit cost results with the statistical relationship results. Users can use a different base year if need be, but then they must ensure that the maintenance cost data is for the same base year. TIP BOX
9.4
The maintenance costs in the COSTnz Model have been divided into routine and corrective maintenance activities. Routine maintenance is defined as including those types of activities which occur on a monthly to annual basis (e.g. inspections after major storms, cleaning out of debris, maintenance of filters or screens, making good from vandalism). Corrective
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maintenance includes activities such as replacement of parts and cleanout of devices. These activities are generally undertaken on a longer timeframe and are dependant on the flows and contaminant loads that are being routed through the device. The default maintenance activities and frequencies in the model are based on TP10 (ARC, 2003) and data collected during the COSTnz project. The unit maintenance cost default values given in the rain tank module are high, mean and low. Inputting the Maintenance Costs Routine Maintenance Costs
Using the drop down menus, select a unit cost for each of the maintenance activities. Alternatively, users can input their own cost data (remember to ensure it is inflated or deflated to the base year of 2007) and compare this to the model defaults. The Model provides default frequencies for routine maintenance. The routine maintenance costs are annualized in order to obtain an average annual routine maintenance figure. Users may input their own maintenance frequencies. A frequency of 1 means an activity will occur once a year whilst a frequency of 12 means that the activity will occur monthly (or twelve times a year). Corrective Maintenance Costs
Complete the Corrective Maintenance table in the same way as for Routine Maintenance. It should be noted that the frequency of a selected activity has an important affect in determining the final total maintenance costs and life cycle costs. Whilst the
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frequencies provided in the Model are based on best practice, care should be taken when selecting and/ or changing the frequencies.
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Chapter 10: The Generic Module
10
THE GENERIC MODULE
10.1 Introduction
The purpose of the Generic Module is to allow users to model the life cycle cost of proprietary devices or stormwater practices not covered under the specific modules. It generally relates to non-vegetated devices and requires a large amount of user input.
Plate 8: The Generic Module can be used to model proprietary devices such as catchpit inserts, oil and water separators or other types of in-ground filtration devices.
10.2 The Generic Design and Costing Assumptions

Users are able to use the model to determine their water quality design requirements (using either the adapted rational formula method to obtain a volume or the rational formula to obtain a flow rate). Rainfall data can be obtained from the NIWA HEARDS rainfall maps (see Appendix A) or locally-sourced data. Once these inputs have been completed the device-specific information can be entered.
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Inputting the Design Parameters
The following bullet points provide guidance on each of the different design parameters. Catchment area - this is the area that will be treated by the device. Percentage Imperviousness in order to work out how much water is running off the site into the treatment device the model needs to know how much impervious surface area there will be on site. This is expressed as a percentage of the total catchment area. Impervious areas are hard surfaces such as roads, roofs, pathways, etc. Rainfall Users need to enter the rainfall depth for the water quality storm in this cell. The water quality storm is normally defined the 90th percentile storm (i.e. 90% of all storms within that region are the specified rainfall depth). Use the map in Appendix A to determine the rainfall depth. OR USE THE RATIONAL FORMULA TO DETERMINE VELOCITY: Catchment area draining to the device - this is the area that will be treated by the device. Runoff Coefficient (C) this is a factor which relates to the impervious coverage of the catchment area. A runoff coefficient of 0.9 is usually used for 100% impervious areas. Where there is a mix of pervious and impervious areas the runoff coefficient can be worked out using this formula: C = 0.3 + 0.6(%impervious cover/100) Rainfall Intensity Users need to enter the rainfall intensity for the water quality storm in this cell. A one hour two year average recurrence interval storm event can be used for the rainfall intensity. Type of proprietary device enter the name of the proprietary device.
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Number of units in many instances more than one cartridge or inserts would be used to treat a specific catchment area. The number of units therefore needs to be included in the model. Annual TSS load - in order to estimate sediment build-up in the device, the model needs to know how much sediment is coming off the catchment area. Users will need to use a contaminant load model to determine the annual total suspended solids (TSS) load. Users can use the ARC Contaminant Load Model to work out the sediment load generated by contributing catchment area. This model can be downloaded from the ARCs website at: http://www.arc.govt.nz/environment/water/stormwater/contaminants-inauckland-stormwater.cfm Alternatively, users can use the C-CALM model developed by NIWA to work out contaminant loads. Efficiency of the Device this is the design efficiency of the device and should be expressed as a percentage of total suspended solids removed.
The Base Year is the year in which the data was collected. All the default values in the model are set to a base year of 2007. It is important that the data used is all from the same year. If using data from different years, users need to inflate or deflate the costs manually using the inflation calculator. Enter the life span of the proposed device. This should equate to how long the device will be able to function for if maintained correctly. The drop down menu provides suggested life spans, however users can enter their own life span too. In the case of a proprietary device, the life span should equate to the manufacturers recommendations. A discount rate of either 3.5 or 6% can be used. If users are doing a long term life cycle costing analysis (i.e. more than 30 years) then 6% should be used as it more accurately accounts for uncertainties in the future. Alternatively, users can enter their own discount rate. Enter the analysis period over which the model should run. This needs to either be the same as or longer than the life span.
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10.3 Total Acquisition Costs (Design & Construction Costs)

The Model enables users to input unit cost data to assess total acquisition costs. In order to complete this section of the Model the user will need to have a detailed knowledge of the device design. This is because the unit costing works on the premise that individual elements of the construction phase can be costed separately. As a result, each type of construction element is broken down in the model and needs to be completed. The drop down menus for these elements provides a selection of low, mean and high cost values. The model also enables users to input their own data into this template if the costs of the rain tank are already known. Inputting the Total Acquisition Costs
The above summary table shows the different categories to be costed which make up the total acquisition costs. In order to enter costs click on the Design and consenting template. This will bring up a table which allows you to enter all costs associated with the conceptual and detailed design of the device, consenting costs and project management costs associated with the construction phase. No model default values are provided for this template. Once users have completed this table, click the Earthworks & installation requirements template. Users can now enter costs associated with site establishment, earthworks and installation requirements of the device construction. Low, mean and high model default values are provided. It should be noted that the template covers a wide variety of construction items, so not every field has to be completed. Only those items relevant to the specific device to be modeled should be completed.
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Repeat the above step in order to complete the remaining construction templates (i.e. piping and concrete works, reinstatement). There may well be items which need to be costed that havent been specified in the unit costing template. As a result users can enter their own construction information by adding additional fields. Units as well as the unit cost need to be entered in these fields. Remember: if using the unit cost template use rates or cost data from the same year. If the rates are prior to 2007, inflate the rates to a 2007 value. If using rates post-2007, deflate the rates to a 2007 value (see the Inflation/ Deflation calculator Tip Box). This also enables users to compare the unit cost results with the statistical relationship results. Users can use a different base year if need be, but then they must ensure that the maintenance cost data is for the same base year.
TIP BOX
10.4 Maintenance and Decommissioning Costs

The maintenance costs in the COSTnz Model have been divided into routine and corrective maintenance activities. Routine maintenance is defined as including those types of activities which occur on a monthly to annual basis (e.g. inspections after major storms, cleaning out of debris, maintenance of filters or screens, making good from vandalism). Corrective maintenance includes activities such as replacement of parts and cleanout of devices. These activities are generally undertaken on a longer timeframe and are dependant on the flows and contaminant loads that are being routed through the device. The default maintenance activities and frequencies in the model are based on TP10 (ARC, 2003) and on data collected during the COSTnz project.
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The unit maintenance cost default values given in the generic module are high, mean and low. Inputting the Maintenance Costs Routine Maintenance Costs
Using the drop down menus, select a unit cost for each of the maintenance activities. In certain instances users will be required to enter their own cost data and frequency of maintenance (remember to ensure it is inflated or deflated to the base year of 2007). Regarding frequencies, a frequency of 1 means an activity will occur once a year whilst a frequency of 12 means that the activity will occur monthly (or twelve times a year). It should be noted that the model does not include routine maintenance costs on years where acquisition occurs (i.e. for model runs where the life cycle analysis period is longer than the life span).
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Complete the Corrective Maintenance table in the same way as for Routine Maintenance. It should be noted that the frequency of a selected activity has an important effect in determining the final total maintenance costs and life cycle costs. Whilst the frequencies provided in the Model are based on best practice, care should be taken when selecting and/ or changing the frequencies.
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Chapter 11: Displaying and Using the Results
11
DISPLAYING AND USING THE RESULTS
11.1 Summary of Displayed Results

When users have completed the design and costing inputs for a device the model will automatically run and generate the life cycle analysis. A summary page provides the following information: real and discounted total acquisition costs, real and discounted total maintenance costs, real and discounted decommissioning costs, real and discounted life cycle costs for the specified period of analysis; and a summary of the key input parameters used. The table also enables users to input their land costs into the summary table, but the model does not include these in the analysis. The results are also presented graphically. A bar graph is used to show the temporal distribution of the maintenance costs and the relative magnitude of the discounted costs to real costs. Two pie charts (one for real costs and one for discounted costs) are used to show the percentage contribution to the life cycle cost of acquisition, maintenance and decommissioning costs (see Figures 4a and b).
Figure 4a: An example of the types of graphs shown on the results page.
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Figure 4b: An example of the types of graphs shown on the results page.
11.2 Reporting Results

If users decide to save the model run and utilise the results then they can request that the model makes a read-only file of the results. In order to do this, click on the Export as PDF button (see below). This button will create a PDF of the model inputs and results. In addition, a summary page which can be used for reporting is also provided. Remember, when results of a life cycle analysis are reported the following information must be included: Size of the catchment draining to the device; Surface area/ volume of the device; Device life span; Life cycle analysis period; Discount rate; Base date (base year for the costing) The summary page created in the PDF document will display all this information to assist with reporting the results.
11.3 Saving and Retrieving Scenarios

In order to save a modeled scenario, click the Save button in the top left hand corner of the page. A dialogue box will appear confirming that the scenario has been saved.
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Saved scenarios will be stored on the Home page and can be opened for editing at any stage. To get back to the main page which displays all the COSTnz models, click on Home.
11.4 Exporting and Printing the Results

All results from a model run are displayed on the Summary page of the model. At the bottom of this page users have the option of exporting the results to a PDF file or to Excel. Exporting to a PDF allows all the user inputs and results to be collated into one report which is suitable for printing. Exporting to Excel also includes all user inputs and results and allows users to aggregate and compare different modeled scenarios. By exporting to Excel, users are also able to overwrite values or directly input values to amend scenarios.
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References
REFERENCES
Auckland Regional Council. 2003. Technical Publication 10: Management Devices: Design Guideline Manual. Stormwater
Australian National Audit Office. 2001. Life Cycle Costing: Better practice guide. Canberra, Commonwealth of Australia. Australian/New Zealand Standard. 1999. Life Cycle Costing: An Application Guide, AS/NZ 4536:1999. Standards Australia, Homebush, NSW, Australia and Standards New Zealand, Wellington, NZ. Giddens, C. (2007). Rawlinsons Construction Handbook. Rawlinsons Media Ltd. Auckland. Ira, S. J. T., Vesely, E-T., and Krausse, M. 2007. Life Cycle Costing of Stormwater Treatment Devices A Unit Costing Approach for New Zealand. NZWWA Journal (Issue 152). Lampe, L., Barrett, M., Woods-Ballard, B., Kellagher, R., Martin, P., Jefferies, C., Hollon, M. 2005. Performance and Whole Life Costs of Best Management Practices and Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems. WERF Report Number 01-CTS-21T. Taylor, A.C. 2003. An Introduction to Life Cycle Costing Involving Structural Stormwater Quality Management Measures. Cooperative Research Centre for Catchment Hydrology, Melbourne, Victoria. Taylor, A.C. 2005. Guidelines for Evaluating the Financial, Ecological and Social Aspects of Urban Stormwater Management measures to Improve Waterway Health. Technical Report. Cooperative Research Centre for Catchment Hydrology, Melbourne, Victoria. Vesely, E-T. 2007. Life Cycle Costing of Stormwater Devices: Addison Block Development. Landcare Research Report LC0607/059. Vesely, E-T., Arnold, G., Ira, S. and Krausse, M. 2006. Costing Stormwater Devices in the Auckland Region. NZWWA Conference Paper.
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Appendices
APPENDICES
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Appendices
APPENDIX A
Prepared by NIWA for the New Zealand Transport Agency for inclusion in the NZTA Draft Stormwater Treatment Standard for Highway Infrastructure (2008).
December 2009 Page 74

New Zealand Corrective Maintenance Costs For Green Infrastructure

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Prepared by Koru Environmental Consultants Ltd. for Landcare Research

COSTnz Model User Manual (V.1)

COSTnz Model User Manual

COSTnz Model User Manual (V.1)

COSTnz Model User Manual (V.1)

COSTnz Model User Manual (V.1)

COSTnz Model: User Manual (v.1)

Aims of the user guide and how to use it

Overview of the Model

COSTnz Model: User Manual (v.1)

Origins of the Data & Algorithms

1.3.1 Unit Cost Data

1.3.2 Statistical Relationships for Total Acquisition Costs

COSTnz Model: User Manual (v.1)

0 0 2000 4000 6000 8000 10000 12000 14000 16000

COSTnz Model: User Manual (v.1)

COSTnz Model: User Manual (v.1)

1.3.3 Cleanout Frequencies

Limitations of the Model and Caveats

COSTnz Model: User Manual (v.1)

COSTnz Model: User Manual (v.1)

Chapter 3: Stormwater Ponds

LIFE CYCLE COSTING

Life Cycle Costing Parameters

COSTnz Model: User Manual (v.1)

Chapter 3: Stormwater Ponds

COSTnz Model: User Manual (v.1)

Chapter 3: Stormwater Ponds

Plate 1: The Oaks Stormwater Pond on Aucklands North Shore

COSTnz Model: User Manual (v.1)

Chapter 3: Stormwater Ponds

Pond Design and Costing Assumptions

COSTnz Model: User Manual (v.1)

Chapter 3: Stormwater Ponds

Life Cycle Costing Assumptions

COSTnz Model: User Manual (v.1)

Chapter 3: Stormwater Ponds

Total Acquisition Costs (Design & Construction Costs)

COSTnz Model: User Manual (v.1)

Chapter 3: Stormwater Ponds

COSTnz Model: User Manual (v.1)

Chapter 3: Stormwater Ponds

Maintenance and Decommissioning Costs

Inputting the Maintenance Costs Routine Maintenance Costs

COSTnz Model: User Manual (v.1)

Chapter 3: Stormwater Ponds

COSTnz Model: User Manual (v.1)

Chapter 3: Stormwater Ponds

Inputting the Decommissioning Costs

COSTnz Model: User Manual (v.1)

Plate 2: Waitangi Park Wetland, Wellington

COSTnz Model: User Manual (v.1)

Wetland Design and Costing Assumptions

Inputting the Wetland Design Parameters

COSTnz Model: User Manual (v.1)

Life Cycle Costing Assumptions

COSTnz Model: User Manual (v.1)

Total Acquisition Costs (Design & Construction Costs)

COSTnz Model: User Manual (v.1)

COSTnz Model: User Manual (v.1)

Maintenance and Decommissioning Costs

COSTnz Model: User Manual (v.1)