What is the term for a pond that is used to treat raw wastewater?

A waste stabilization pond is specifically designed to treat raw wastewater through natural processes that involve organic material breakdown and nutrient removal. This type of pond utilizes sunlight, algae, and bacteria to facilitate these processes, making it an effective method for reducing pollutants in wastewater.

In contrast, aerobic ponds primarily rely on oxygen provided by aeration to treat wastewater, functioning under conditions that promote aerobic microorganisms. Temporary ponds might serve as a transient holding area for water but are not specifically designed for wastewater treatment. Retention basins are intended to manage stormwater runoff and control flooding but do not treat wastewater in the way that waste stabilization ponds do. Thus, the waste stabilization pond stands out as the appropriate choice for treating raw wastewater effectively.