ABSTRACT

The process of planning a sewage sludge land application project begins with the collection and assessment of basic data on sludge characteristics. The careful identification, evaluation, and ultimate selection of land application sites can prevent future environmental problems, reduce monitoring requirements, minimize overall program costs, and moderate or eliminate adverse public reaction. The chapter provides an overview of key requirements in the Part 503 regulation that affect site selection for land application of sewage sludge, and an example of the site selection procedures that can be used for a typical medium-sized community. The Part 503 rule contains several provisions that must be considered during site selection for land application of sewage sludge. Transport can be a major cost of a land application project, and requires a thorough analysis. The chapter briefly summarizes of the alternatives that may be considered during the preliminary planning phase.