Biosolids are the nutrient-rich organic materials resulting from the treatment of domestic sewage at a wastewater treatment facility.  Through biosolids management, solid residue from wastewater treatment is processed to reduce or eliminate pathogens and minimize odors, forming a safe, beneficial agricultural product.

Farmers and gardeners have been recycling biosolids for ages.  Biosolids can be applied as fertilizer to improve and maintain productive soils and stimulate plant growth.  They also are used to fertilize gardens and parks and reclaim mining sites.

Biosolids are carefully monitored and must be used in accordance with regulatory requirements.

What does BCDES do with biosolids?
Biosolids are a valuable resource and are an excellent soil conditioner and fertilizer. When possible, BCDES recycles biosolids by coordinating with farmers and applying the nutrient-rich biosolids to local farm fields; our goal is to recycle 35 percent of the biosolids we produce annually. We dispose of the remaining biosolids at the landfill and are evaluating other long term alternatives for biosolids use and disposal.

We have strict quality control standards and comply with local and federal regulations when producing and disposing biosolids. With our biosolids Environmental Management System (EMS), BCDES has taken a novel and systematic approach in the way we manage biosolids and subsequently all our wastewater operations.

In 2005, BCDES became the first utility in Ohio and the sixth in the nation to achieve National Biosolids Partnership (NBP) certification. In October 2006, BCDES reached Platinum Level designation - NBP's highest level of biosolids management and environmental stewardship. 

For more information, please see:

• Biosolids
• Pathogens and Safety Concerns

BCDES encourages feedback from the public about its biosolids EMS and biosolids management program.  Please call (513)785-5408 and/or email BCDES to submit comments or questions.