Staunton – From his uncle to his father, Olen Swisher has continued a family tradition by keeping the farm in the family. A retired dairy farm in Staunton, Virginia, he is focused on keeping his beef cow calf operation productive and profitable to one day pass down to his children.

The recovery of resources is an essential component of any municipal utility that treats wastewater. For Henrico County, its commitment to the recycling of biosolids extends beyond the typical commitment to the agriculture community, it also makes sure to use its biosolids on property owned by the County, which makes it somewhat unique to other urban/suburban wastewater recovery or reclamation facilities.

Port Republic – Farming Since 1944, the Saufley Family takes pride in their cow calf operation and nearly 175 acres of grass, hay and corn.  Steve Saufley speaks of the important role he and other farmers play, providing food, feed and fuel for our nation.  He worries about the growing disconnect for future generations, not understanding where their food, feed and fuels comes from.

A 10-year plan adopted in 2018 by the Arlington County Board will utilize new technology to develop the next generation of solids treatment processes while replacing aging equipment and infrastructure. These new processes will convert wastewater residuals into clean, safe fertilizer and renewable natural gas.

There are about 60,000 acres in crop production in the city of Chesapeake, and Todd farms about 2,400 acres here and in southern Virginia Beach, and across the state line in Currituck County, NC.

The Biosolids Council recently worked with Virginia Tech School of Plant and Environmental Science to develop biosolids Fact Sheets. These Fact Sheets can be found on the Resources Page.

On June 8, 1863, Union General Alfred Pleasonton launched a surprise attack on the Confederate Calvary stationed at Brandy Station. General Pleasonton’s troops were the front line for the largest cavalry battle to take place in America, it was the beginning of the Gettysburg campaign.

The land application of biosolids is currently permitted in more than 70 counties in Virginia.  Much of this recycling occurs on very rural and private farms.  The recycling and beneficial use of biosolids on Richard Clemmer’s farm in Rockbridge County, however, occurs within sight of one of the busiest roads on the East Coast of the United States – the U.S. Interestate-81corridor between Lexington and Staunton.

Essex County has some of the most fertile soils in Virginia. It is located in the historic Middle Peninsula, bordered by the York River to its south and the Rappahannock River to its north. It is solidly rural, and much of the economic activity is centered on farming and forestry.