The Lehigh County Conservation District is delegated by the PADEP to conduct annual inspections of each Biosolids application site.

Biosolids are the “nutrient rich organic materials derived from wastewater solids that have been stabilized, meet specific quality criteria, and are suitable for land application”. Due to the nutrient content of Biosolids, many farmers find the material useful as an alternative to chemical fertilizers. Also, Biosolids supply organic matter, which improves soil quality and plant productivity.

The LCCD is delegated to work with the DEP’s Biosolids Program. Specifically, the Conservation District is responsible for ensuring conservation plan compliance, annual inspections of approved sites, and handling questions and complaints related to Biosolids application in Lehigh County.

Currently there are nine farms approved for land application of Biosolids in Lehigh County. These farms are located in Lynn, Weisenberg, Lowhill, Lower Milford, and Lower Macungie Townships. Prior to receiving Biosolids, all farms underwent soil analysis and were inspected by the PA DEP and the LCCD. All land application is done by a certified applicator and spreading rates are determined by the planned crops’ agronomic needs. Annual application rates of Biosolids are determined by the Nitrogen requirements of the crop being grown, whereas total lifetime applications of Biosolids to a field are limited by the cumulative loading of eight regulated trace elements.

For more information about the land application of Biosolids, contact the Conservation District or click on the PA DEP website link below.