“HEY, SMALL PLANTS NEED DEWATERING, TOO”

Beneficial reuse of biosolids as a dilute (1–3% TS) liquid can cause problems for operators at small plants. A large volume is required for the recommended (and often necessary) 120–180 days storage. Liquid hauling means many trips to the field, or paying a commercial hauler 300–500/dry ton to land apply liquid biosolids. In addition, no-tillfarming methods may eliminate liquid application to reduce compaction. Last, the farmer may not benefit because it is difficult to apply organic material and nutrients at an agronomic loading rate without numerous passes over the same strip of ground.