Frequently
Asked
Questions
[ The FAQ's ]
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Frequently Asked Biosolids Questions
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- How Are Biosolids Used For Agriculture?
In Pennsylvania, most biosolids are used to fertilize feed crops for domestic animals. Agricultural use of biosolids, that meet strict quality criteria and application rates, have been shown to produce significant improvements in crop growth and yield. Nutrients found in biosolids, such as nitrogen, phosphorus and trace elements such as calcium, copper, iron, magnesium, manganese, sulfur and zinc, are necessary for crop production and growth. The use of biosolids reduces the farmer's production costs and replenishes the organic matter that has been depleted over time. The organic matter improves soil structure by increasing the soil's ability to absorb and store moisture.
The organic nitrogen and phosphorous found in biosolids are used very efficiently by crops because these plant nutrients are released slowly throughout the growing season. This enables the crop to absorb these nutrients as the crop grows. Compared to conventional fertilizer, biosolids lessens the likelihood of groundwater pollution from nitrogen and phosphorous.
- Can Biosolids Be Used For Mine Reclamation?
The same quality controlled biosolids used in Pennsylvania agriculture are used successfully at mine sites to establish sustainable vegetation. Not only does the organic matter, inorganic matrix and nutrients present in the biosolids reduce the bioavailability of toxic substances often found in highly disturbed mine soils, but also regenerate the soil layer. This regeneration is very important for reclaiming abandoned mine sites with little or no topsoil. The biosolids application rate for mine reclamation is higher than the agronomic rate however, it is usually a one time application rather than annually
- How Are Biosolids Used For Forestry?
Biosolids have been found to promote rapid timber growth, allowing quicker and more efficient harvest of an important natural resource.
- Can Biosolids Be Used For Composting?
Yes, biosolids may be composted and sold or distributed for use on lawns and home gardens. The Philadelphia Water Department composts some of the biosolids produced and sells the product, Earthmate, throughout the mid Atlantic region. Earthmate, is registered with various state's Department of Agriculture as specialty fertilizer and soil conditioner. Earthmate is a highly desirable product that is easy to store, transport and use.
- Are There Rules About Where Biosolids Can Be Applied?
To determine whether biosolids can be applied to a particular mine site, an evaluation of the site's suitability is performed by WMPI, the land applier. The evaluation examines the location water supplies, slopes, and the distances to occupied dwellings, property lines, and surface water and groundwater.
There are different rules for different classes of biosolids. Class A biosolids are highly processed and contain no detectible levels of pathogens. Once permitted, Class A biosolids that meet strict stabilization requirements and low levels metals contents, may be sold as a fertilizer or soil conditioner. Class B biosolids are treated to destroy 99.99% of the monitored organisms, but still, as with many soil amendments, contain detectible levels of pathogens. There are buffer requirements, public access restrictions, and crop harvesting restrictions for virtually all forms of Class B biosolids.
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Beneficial Technology for a Better Environment
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