Why Is This Important?
Biosolids are the nutrient-rich by-product of municipal wastewater treatment. The City works with farmers and ranchers in Eastern Oregon to apply the them as a soil amendment to grain fields and pastures, providing environmental and economic benefits. Biosolids production and land application are strictly regulated by the Environmental Protection Agency and the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ). To make sure Portland's biosolids can be beneficially used, the city tests it on a daily schedule and monitors the treatment process to detect any problems. The beneficial reuse of biosolids frees up finite landfill space and replenishes the soil with valuable nutrients and organic matter, improving soil fertility. Land application of biosolids is an important component of a circular economy where society aims at a continual use of resources and eliminating waste.