Biosolids and Sludge Management

Goldstein (1998) conducted a survey of state officials in the United States providing insights to biosolids generation and management practices, cost of land application versus landfilling of biosolids, restrictions on landfilling of biosolids, reporting of biosolids quality, and bans, restrictions or ordinances on land application. The survey showed that three states have been delegated to take administrative authority for the technical standards of 40 CFR Part 503; furthermore, 7 states are currently seeking full and 16 states partial delegation. As part of a biosolids-composting survey, Thirteen states reported that they have more restrictive limits for some trace elements than stated in 40 CFR Part 503, while 32 have the same limits. In addition, 22 states reported that they require testing for additional parameters, such as synthetic organics, while 18 states do not. In New Hampshire, land application is not only overseen by state but also by local authorities Local regulations can include bans, moratoria, acceptance of state regulations with some changes, or combinations of planninglhealth ordinances with additional restrictions above state regulations.