Prepared By:
John M. Peckenham, Senior Research Scientist
Senator George J. Mitchell Center for Environmental and Watershed Research

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Executive Summary

Section I. Introduction
1.1 Biosolids Defined
1.2 Why Biosolids
1.3 Why a Biosolids White Paper?
1.4 Biosolids White Paper Organization
1.5 Background
1.6 Maine’s Regulations
1.7 Characterization of Biosolids in Maine.
1.8 How Do Biosolids Compare to Manures?
1.9 What Are The Trends In Maine?
1.10 What Are The Concerns?

Section II. The Effect of Biosolids on Soil Quality and Crops
2.1 Introduction.
2.2 Agronomic Value.
2.3 Metal Mobility
2.4 Trace Metal Uptake By Plants.
2.5 Metal Accumulation in Soil
2.6 Organic Compounds
2.7 Summary

Section III. The Effect of Biosolids on Water Quality
3.1 Introduction.
3.2 Nutrient Loading.
3.3 Organic Compounds and Trace Metals.
3.4 Summary.

Section IV. Pathogens and Odor Issues
4.1 Introduction.
4.2 Pathogen Reduction Methods and Vector Attractiveness Reduction.
4.3 Health Risks.
4.4 Evidence of Pathogenicity.
4.5 Risks Posed By Bioaerosols.
4.6 Odors and Atmospheric Transport.
4.7 Transport into Groundwater.
4.8 Summary.

Section V. An Assessment of Maine’s Regulation of Biosolids
5.1 Introduction.
5.2 Agronomic Value.
5.3 Soil Quality.
5.4 Water Quality.
5.5 Air Quality.
5.6 Sustainability.
5.7 Management

Acknowledgements

References Cited