A Strong Network: The Success of Regional Biosolids Groups in North America

Regional biosolids groups are stakeholders banded together to serve as a voice for biosolids management in their regions. While regulations, concerns, and interests may differ from state to state, regional associations have served as hubs for leveraging valuable research initiatives, sharing biosolids news, and answering member and community questions on biosolids use. By focusing attention on their respective regions, their efforts are rooted at a local level where they have the most impact. There are five active groups across North America, including the California Association of Sanitation Agencies, Mid-Atlantic Biosolids Association, North East Biosolids & Residuals Association, Northwest Biosolids, and the Virginia Biosolids Council. These groups have witnessed their own unique challenges and successes specific to their regions, yet have come to rely on the power of an extended network for continent-wide initiatives and staying informed on biosolids news across the continent. Where regional networks don’t currently exist, WEF Member Associations have helped to address local challenges and offered educational opportunities for their members. Today, after three decades of experience, the resiliency of the regional groups continues to be tested by challenges such as adequate funding, the level of volunteer engagement, a transitioning workforce, and the changing dynamics of biosolids and residuals management.