[New] Bio-Solids A Hot Commodity In Vermilion

Angela Mouly Reporter

The Town of Vermilion has released an expression of interest to partner with local Ag producers and deliver them bio-solids; that’s right fertilizer in the form of human excrement.

The bio-solids are produced during the final wasting process at the wastewater treatment plant, and would come nicely packaged in sludge form and be delivered locally for free.

The sludge is high in phosphorous and nitrogen and so the Town says it makes for an excellent fertilizer. But not to worry if you have reservations, this has been practised for 100 years and there are several restrictions of how and where this product can be applied to fields.

Soil testing is required for the application, and bio-solids are restricted to lands intended for the production of forages, oil seeds, small grains, dried legumes, trees, and commercial sod. Following its application, direct grazing of treated crops is not recommended for a period of three years. Bio-solids should not be applied to crops that may be eaten raw, used to grow root crops, or lands that may be grazed by dairy cattle.

“The main reason we are going this route with the material is that it can provide a fertilizer product to producers at no cost to them, while helping the Town avoid the landfill fees associated with taking the bio-solids there. It is a financial win-win for both parties,” said Executive Assistant Andrea Wilkinson.

The bio-solids are currently sent to the Vegreville landfill. Even though treatment meets regulations, some people question whether this type of product contains toxic chemicals and pollutants. Other sources estimate 50 per cent of American bio-solids are already being used, mainly on agricultural land.

“On average we expect to produce 11 cubic meters of material a week, and would be delivering it once a week to producers. This would equate to roughly 600 tonnes of material per year being produced. As for how many producers, it will depend on the soil conditions on the field they plan to apply the material too, and whether they can accept it all or not. The Town is open to working with as many producers that may be interested in accepting it,” said Wilkinson. For more information or to express your interest, you can contact Ben McPhee at 780-853-5358 prior to 2 p.m. on February 14.