What does BCWS do with biosolids?
Biosolids are a valuable resource and can be re-used as a soil conditioner and fertilizer. As such, some wastewater treatment utilities work with farmers and apply the nutrient-rich biosolids to agricultural fields. Historically, BCWS land-applied about 25% of its biosolids on local farm fields; the remaining biosolids were hauled to the landfill for disposal. In recent years, reduction in available farmland due to development, rising transportation and energy costs, and increased odors associated with biosolids as a result of new treatment techniques have limited our ability to land-apply biosolids in Butler County. In 2007, BCWS decided to suspend its land application program and focus on cost reduction efforts while producing a quality product. Also in 2007, BCWS expanded a partnership with Metropolitan Sewer District of Greater Cincinnati (MSD) to transport and incinerate a portion of our biosolids at MSD ’s Little Miami Wastewater Treatment Plant; the remaining biosolids are still
