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Biosolids Management

Contact:

Josh Tyler
Biosolids Program Manager
(802) 872-8100 x210
Email Josh by using the form on our Contact Us page

What are biosolids?

From the Environmental Protection Agency’s definition:

Biosolids are the nutrient-rich organic materials resulting from the treatment of sewage sludge (the name for the solid, semisolid or liquid untreated residue generated during the treatment of domestic sewage in a treatment facility). When treated and processed, sewage sludge becomes biosolids which can be safely recycled and applied as fertilizer to sustainably improve and maintain productive soils and stimulate plant growth.

Disposal options for biosolids

Communities with waste water treatment plants decide how best to manage the biosolids that result from the treatment process. Nationally, the options include:

  • landfilling
  • incineration
  • land application*

*Only biosolids that meet the most stringent standards spelled out in the federal and state rules can be approved for use as a fertilizer.

CSWD’s role in the management of biosolids

CSWD supports member communities of Chittenden County with the management of their biosolids and helps coordinate with state regulators and commercial partners to ensure that all federal and state disposal requirements are met.