The recycling and land application of biosolids on family farms is a productive and beneficial reuse of by-product of an essential public service. Just ask Dr. Wade Thomason, Professor, Grain Crops Extension Specialist, with Virginia Tech, who for years has researched the use of organic nutrient sources to improve crop nutrition while maintaining the principles […]
Recently the U.S. EPA released a statement on whether biosolids (treated sewage sludge) contain SARS-CoV-2 virus and whether biosolids can be land applied safely. The statement says the following: “Existing requirements and guidance help ensure that biosolids are processed, handled, and land-applied in a manner that minimizes the risk of exposure to pathogens, including viruses. […]
It improves soil health; It recycles nutrients; It mitigates climate change by capturing carbon; It reduces fertilizer and pesticide use; It strengthens farm economies; It makes degraded lands vital and useful; It’s Biosolids. And with every use, we’re making Virginia a little greener. […]
By Clara Beaufort, Founder and CEO of GardenerGigs. When it comes to the value of your home, there are so many factors largely out of your control: the quality of schools, the value of nearby houses, the surrounding neighborhood, and more. Focusing on your curb appeal, however, can be a huge boon if you put the […]
The Board of Directors of the Virginia Biosolids Council (VBC) established a Code of Good Practice to provide guidance for its members on the production and beneficial recycling of biosolids in Virginia and requires the Council to report on its progress annually. The Virginia Biosolids Council Membership of the Council includes representatives of municipal utilities […]
As COVID-19’s impact continues to escalate and anxiety rises, it can be difficult to know where to look for accurate information, specifically related to the functionality of existing municipal utility processes to protect public health and safety. Municipal utility treatment processes are rigorous, the wastewater is subjected to physical, biological, and chemical processes during treatment […]
By Rhonda Bowen Spring is just around the corner and it’s time to prepare for success in your lawn, landscape and garden. Establishing a healthy soil is paramount to achieving this. As an avid gardener for many years, agronomist and retired Recycling Manager for HRSD, I have come to understand how important soil quality is […]
Some municipalities have been switching to produce EQ biosolids that can be used locally in urban landscapes. These municipalities promote the use of EQ biosolids products for urban agriculture due to their beneficial effects on soil rehabilitation, vegetable production and carbon sequestration in the cities. The City of Tacoma (WA) has produced and marketed Tagro […]
Staunton – From his uncle to his father, Olen Swisher has continued a family tradition by keeping the farm in the family. A retired dairy farmer in Staunton, Virginia, he is focused on keeping his beef cow calf operation productive and profitable to one day pass down to his children. To support his livestock, Swisher […]
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 […]