Annual Reports

2007

Annual Report

Biosolids Program

Biosolids are the stabilized and dewatered organic solid product of our facility’s solids processes. It is interesting that, if you asked, many people would believe that biosolids are a waste product rather than a valuable resource. Like animal manure biosolids are a part of the natural cycle of life and contain nutrients including carbon, hydrogen, oxygen, phosphorous, potassium, nitrogen, sulphur, calcium, iron, magnesium, molybdenum, boron, copper and zinc. Biosolids utilization provides a natural, organic-based alternative to petroleum-based chemical fertilizer and eliminates the need to dispose of these materials at local landfills.

We land apply over 20,000 wet tons of biosolids each year to farm fields. That equates to filling Lambeau Field to a height of 15 feet.  Because of its high organic content, biosolids can improve soil structure and tilth, increase the intake and retention of water, promote desirable drainage, reduce crusting and runoff and permit easier seed emergence. The organic matter is the ingredient that gives life to the soil and is the storehouse of food for plant metabolism. Microorganisms in the soil utilize this organic matter as energy while releasing nutrients for use by the plants.

The Biosolids Management Program at the Appleton WWTP ensures the safe agricultural reuse of the biosolids product. Appropriate control is needed for all fertilizers and soil conditioners to ensure that the proper amount of essential nutrients are provided. Excess nutrients from the over application of chemically based fertilizers or biosolids can contaminate groundwater with excess nitrogen. Our Biosolids Management Program computes biosolids land application rates based on crop needs. The application rates fully comply with regulation from the Environmental Protection Agency and Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources.

Biosolids Land Application Program