From 1938 to 1992, sewage sludge was simply thought of as a waste byproduct and dumped into the ocean. As laws about disposal changed, treatment plants began to look at other solutions. Today, there are many beneficial reuses of biosolids in Bethel, OH.
Are you familiar with this process? Following is a basic FAQ to educate yourself on biosolids and how they are used today.
What is a biosolid?
Domestic sewage is commonly referred to as sludge. At a water treatment facility, the sludge is dewatered, and becomes the nutrient-rich organic material referred to as biosolids.
What are beneficial reuses of biosolids in Bethel, OH?
Biosolids can be used as soil conditioners and fertilizers. They are applied to farmland, lawns, cemeteries, golf courses and parkland. These organic contents can also be used to cover active or inactive landfills. They are also helpful in mine reclamation.
How are biosolids applied?
Liquid biosolids are almost entirely water and are injected into the soil or applied to the surface of the land. To inject the biosolids into the soil, vehicles are equipped with special machinery. A hose connects a storage tank to injection nozzles which force the biosolids into the ground. For surface application of biosolids, tanker trucks are often used. Conventional farm equipment is then used to work the biosolids into the soil.
What are the advantages of applying biosolids?
Biosolids are rich in nutrients. Due to their properties, they improve soil conditions, including texture and the capacity to hold water. This creates better conditions for root growth and helps vegetation withstand drought. The nutrients also offer essentials for plant growth.
Biosolids also provide some advantages over chemical fertilizers. Their organic nature releases their nutrients slowly to growing plants. Biosolids are also less water soluble. This means they are less likely to soak into the groundwater or run off into surface waters.
Can biosolids be applied anywhere?
Regulations dictate where biosolids can be applied. These are based partly on the class of the biosolid. Class A biosolids contain no detectable levels of pathogens. They are highly processed and are sold as soil conditioner and fertilizer. Class B biosolids contain detectable levels of pathogens. This class of biosolids is restricted by public access and crop harvesting regulations.
Do biosolids emit a bad odor?
This depends on the biosolid. Some products have an unpleasant odor. However, many biosolid products do not. Most Class A biosolids are free of odor, or they may offer a slightly earthy smell. Some Class B biosolids have an odor similar to animal manure, but the smell is temporary when the product is applied.
Recycling at Its Best
No longer are we throwing this valuable resource into the ocean as pollution. Fortunately, modern methods continue to make the process of reusing biosolids more efficient and cost-effective. As a result, we have many options for the beneficial reuse of biosolids in Bethel, OH. If you have any questions about how these products can be used in your area, contact the biosolid experts at Gullett Sanitation Services Inc. today.