Biosolids are the nutrient-rich, organic materials resulting from the wastewater treatment process. When they have been treated, they can be recycled and used to enhance soil on farmland, much like fertilizer.

Yes. The recycling of biosolids is regulated by state, local, and national authorities, including the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). In fact, it is encouraged by the EPA as a green alternative to using artificial fertilizers and thus placing the unused biosolids in landfills. Years of the use of biosolids on farmland along with much research have demonstrated that, when used properly, biosolids are a perfectly safe and environmentally friendly option. In reviewing current practices, the National Academy of Sciences concluded that “the use of these materials in the production of crops for human consumption when practiced in accordance with existing federal guidelines and regulations, presents negligible risk to the consumer, to crop production and to the environment.

There are many reasons to use biosolids on your farm. First, they are beneficial to your crops. Biosolids contain many of the nutrients crops need including nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, calcium, copper, iron, magnesium, manganese, sulfur, and zinc. They have been proven to produce considerable improvements in both crop yield and growth. Secondly, using biosolids can lessen the costs of your production and improve your soil by replenishing its organic matter. They can greatly reduce the need for commercial fertilizers. Lastly, it helps the environment—otherwise unused biosolids may end up taking up precious space in a landfill. Also the fact that biosolids release their nutrients slowly decreases the possibility of groundwater pollution by nitrogen and phosphorus.

For the most part biosolids do not cause an odor on farmland. When first applied, they may have a slight musty odor. However, when they are applied properly, this odor should be minimal and will dissipate quickly. Owners, Lance and Chad Wealing, continue to manage their family grain farm and understand concerns regarding the odor of your farmland. For this reason, we take special care to apply the biosolids in a way that will not cause a lingering odor.