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Research
Research is a continuous need for a successful biosolids
program. WSSC budgets over $200,000 for biosolids research each year. These
funds are used in cooperation with the academic community to address current
issues associated with biosolids. Following is a list of past, present and
future research projects:
| 1. |
Phosphorous and Biosolids |
- Fund research to address current questions regarding the potential for phosphorus from biosolids applied to farm fields to move to water bodies through surface runoff or leaching.
- Facilitate the use of these results in the development of scientifically valid standards for applying P-based nutrient management to the land application of biosolids.
Researchers: The lead researchers are Dr. Tom Sims,
a soil scientist, and Dr. Steve Dentel, an environmental engineer, both
from the University of Delaware. Two other soil scientists, Dr. Frank
Coale of the University of Maryland and Dr. Greg Evanylo of Virginia Tech University
were also involved.
| 2. |
The Relationship Between Cationic Polymer Use and Odor
Production From Sludge Cakes |
- Fund research to address odor production associated with the use of cationic polymers for sludge conditioning.
Researchers: The Lead researcher is John T. Novak,
Professor of Civil & Environmental Engineering at Virginia Tech University, with
help from several Virginia Tech Civil & Environmental Engineering graduate
students.
| 3. |
Determination of Optimum Tree Density and Biosolids
Application Rate and the Effect on Water Quality and Tree Growth Using the
Deep Row Biosolids Incorporation Method |
- Fund research to address the science of reclamation of sand and gravel sites
through the use of biosolids and trees.
Researchers: Jonathan S. Kays and Dr. Gary Felton,
both from Maryland Cooperative Extension
| 4. |
Forestry Application Rate |
- Fund research to evaluate effects of different biosolids application rates on tree growth and measure nutrient dynamics.
Researcher: Dr. Tom Fox, Virginia Tech University
- Fund research to test heavy metal mobility and plant uptake under continuous crop production and changing pH conditions.
Researcher: Dr. Greg Evanylo, Virginia Tech University
| 6. |
Bio-active Substance Research |
- Fund research to assess potential of biosolids amended soil to supply
bioactive substances that support more stress tolerant crop plants.
Researchers: Dr. Erick Ervin, Virginia Tech University,
and Dr. Matt Higgins, Bucknell University
Status and reports of this research may be obtained by contacting Steve Gerwin by  or calling 301-206-7448
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