by Julia Geisler and Kate Bronstein

Biosolids are treated sewage sludge used for application on farm fields as fertilizer. There are two classifications of biosolids, Class A and Class B. Class A or "EQ" (exceptional quality) biosolids can be treated as any other type of fertilizer, and are sometimes sold commercially for lawns and home gardens. Class A can be used on crops for human consumption as long as the crop does not touch the biosolids. For example, Class A could be utilized for apple trees because the trees would not come into contact with the biosolids, whereas potatoes would. Class A biosolids undergo a stricter treatment regime than do Class B biosolids.

The treatment process for sludge generated from households and industries combined includes biological, chemical, and physical processes. The Carlisle Sewage Treatment Plant has a website explaining the process of treating sewage sludge to form biosolid: http://www.dep.state.pa.us/dep/biosolids/carlislefacility.htm

What are the main benefits from the application of biosolids on farmland?

• Biosolids are a cost-effective outlet for the disposal of the inevitable problem of sewage waste.
• Many farmers claim they harvest a better crop yield and that the biosolids create better soil retention.
• Biosolids are free fertilizer for the farmer.

• Biosolids are in their infancy and the regulations are still evolving to manage their use.
• One must make a choice about the elevated risk of using treated sewage sludge on our food products.
• A consumer is unaware if their food was grown from fields applied with biosolids due to the lack of product labeling.
• A neighbor of a farmer who plans to spread biosolids on his/her field has no legal right to stop the activity, even if there is an elevated risk of pathogens transported downwind, and leaching of toxic substances into groundwater.
• There is a risk of build-up of metals in the soil after prolonged use of biosolids.

• Citizens opposed to biosolids can influence farmers not to accept biosolids until further testing is done on harmful substances they may contain, including dioxin, PCBs, and di-benzine flourines. Farmers have the full ability to accept or decline the free biosolids.
• The public can also contact Eric Laur, the regional coordinator for biosolids for DEP, at 717-705-4773 or email him at: elaur@state.pa.us.
• A citizen can also contact their local waste water treatment plant.

Click here for more detailed information about biosolids