Case study

Land Application of Water Treatment Plant Residuals

Problem

In 2012, AWT was contacted by a contractor who was hired by the City of Raleigh, NC to empty a storage pond of residuals from the municipal drinking water treatment plant (Class A Biosolids). Through an initial meeting between AWT, the City of Raleigh and the contractor, it was made clear that this project had to be completed in a very environmentally responsible manner.

GIS map showing available acres for land application.
GIS map showing available acres for land application.

Problem Continued

Residual Application Field
Residual Application Field

Solution

Since AWT has unique qualifications within its staff, a team was developed to ensure the project could efficiently be managed. The team consisted of agricultural engineers, soil scientists, certified crop advisors and an agronomist were used.

AWT successfully developed a land application plan for the residuals on nearby farmland. This plan was used by AWT and the contractor when they met with local farmers and land owners to secure the appropriate acreage. We were able to attract many land owners by showing that the land application of this material on their land provided a nutrient source for their crops and would therefore reduce their overall fertilization costs for that year. The landowners were confident the land application would be done correctly since the team consisted of an agronomist and agricultural engineer.

Once a landowner provided the agreement that their land could be used to apply the residuals, application rates were developed for each field. Soil samples were also collected by AWT and analyzed to determine the background level of nutrients. The soil sample results and crops grown were used to ensure that the amount of amount of nutrients applied could be beneficially utilized by the crops grown.

AWT developed GIS maps for all of the fields used for land application. Once the land application of the residuals was underway, AWT provided project supervision, identified application setback features, and provided weekly updates and land application records to the contractor, City of Raleigh and the regulatory personnel.

At the end of this successful project, the contractor sent us a note saying:
“I wanted to thank you guys for everything you have been doing for us. I wanted you guys to know what you are doing feels like you are going above and beyond. The meetings you have come to and letters you have provided on short notice, I feel is exceptional service. I just wanted to thank you guys for what you are doing.”

If you would like further information regarding how AWT’s staff of professionals can help you on your next project, please contact Hal Langenbach.

‘I wanted you guys to know what you are doing feels like you are going above and beyond. The meetings you have come to and letters you have provided on short notice, I feel is exceptional service.’

,
NRCS

Overview

AWT has extensive experience in developing land application plans for residuals and biosolids of all kinds. We have worked with municipalities, farmers, food processors and many others. If you would like further information regarding how AWT’s staff of professionals can help you on your next project, please contact Hal Langenbach.