Biosolids: Frequently Asked Questions
WHAT ARE BIOSOLIDS?
Biosolids are the treated residues generated during the
processing of domestic sewage at a water recycling center. They are primarily
composed of dead microorganisms that consumed organic material in wastewater
and were then harvested. Biosolids can be solid, semi-solid, or liquid
in form. Biosolids are a natural organic fertilizer and soil conditioner
which provide a full compliment of the essential nutrients and micronutrients
necessary for healthy plant growth.
WHAT ARE BIOSOLIDS GOOD FOR?
Biosolids can be beneficially used in agriculture (direct
land application) or they can be made into compost for application on
lawns, gardens, and trees. Land application involves applying biosolids
to rangeland, forests, cropland, or public parks. Composting involves
mixing biosolids with another organic waste material, wood chips.
WHY SHOULD WE USE BIOSOLIDS?
Use of biosolids or compost made from biosolids returns
a useful resource to the environment and has a number of very beneficial
effects:
- Accelerates plant growth and produces a healthier plant
- Improves moisture retention in the soil
- Increases organic matter in the soil
- Improves erosion control
- Reduces dependence on inorganic fertilizers
- Reduces the volume of material disposed of in landfills, reducing
costs and prolonging landfill life
- Nitrogen is released to the soil slowly, preventing any excess nitrogen
from seeping into groundwater
ARE BIOSOLIDS SAFE?
Biosolids have been used in many places throughout the country
for decades and there have been no toxic effects or infectious disease
outbreaks associated with their use.
HOW IS HUMAN HEALTH AND THE ENVIRONMENT PROTECTED?
- State and Federal regulations regarding the safe use of biosolids
were designed to be overly-conservative so that workers and the public
have a high degree of protection.
- SAWS has a nationally recognized Pretreatment Program that ensures
biosolids derived from domestic sewage contain low levels of metals
and chemical pollutants.
- Proper handling and processing of biosolids ensures the product contains
low numbers of pathogens and produces few odors. High temperatures in
the compost production process effectively kill disease-causing organisms.
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