Richmond, Va.-A panel of experts has been formed at the direction of the Virginia State Legislature to study the impact the use of biosolids as fertilizer has on human health and the environment. The panel was mandated by the 2007 legislature, which also directed that regulatory control of biosolids be transferred from state health to the environmental department. Comprising more than two dozen authorities, including those from the medical profession, crop and soil sciences, and the state agriculture and consumer services and health and wildlife and fisheries departments, the panel gathered for its first meeting in Richmond on Sept. 18. The lawmakers directed them to assess health and odor consequences, crop and livestock uptake, and impacts on water quality and wildlife. Next, they must analyze the chemical and biological makeup of the biosolids used as fertilizer, and evaluate the potential toxicity on humans, crops, soil organisms, and wildlife. They will also evaluate alternatives for the uses and disposal of biosolids, investigate alternatives for the use of biosolids, and identify ways to implement alternatives at the state, local, and regional levels. Changes likely are already in store on a regulatory basis for biosolids use as fertilizer. Effective Jan. 1, biosolids will become part of the Dept. of Environmental Quality’s office of land application programs, which include confined animal feeding operations, according to its manager, Neil Zahradka. Zahradka, who is also assisting the biosolids investigation panel, told Green Markets recently that changes may be in the works after the transfer takes place. “We will be taking a look at the more sensitive issues,” he reported, adding that this may include the monitoring program, which is unique to Virginia and several other states, including Wisconsin, Minnesota, Pennsylvania, and North Carolina. There also could also be a new approach to permitting, and what Zahradka termed as “getting more input from adjoining property owners for further evaluation.” Roy York, Amelia County’s monitor, who also serves as environmental resources manager, expects there may be a new focus on training, which now involves field and classroom instruction. York noted that one benefit will be an increase in applicator fees, effective Jan. 1, from $2.50 to $7.50 per ton. “My thoughts are that the additional funding will enhance the program with additional inspectors and staff and more oversight,” York reported. At last count, 23 Virginia counties had state-approved biosolids ordinances and monitors to test and monitor for proper land applications.
Transparency Across the Fertilizer Value-Chain