The Clear Take on Water and Wastewater Today

Industry Brief

So, What Happens to Those Biosolids, Anyway?

The National Biosolids Data Project keeps tabs on how biosolids are used and managed in the United States. They report that most biosolids are applied to soils, while others are landfilled or incinerated. Some are used to produce green energy. The project is in the midst of updating its survey to cover every state. We thought it would be interesting to share the high points of the 2018 survey from a few of the states we serve. The study is in the process of being updated to reflect 2020 data. See the National Biosolids Data website to learn more.

Minnesota biosolids use and disposal in 2018

Iowa biosolids use and disposal in 2018

Missouri biosolids use and disposal in 2018

National Biosolids Data Project, 2021. Data on biosolids management in the U. S.

Point of interest: According to the National Biosolids Data Project, here’s how many Water Resource Recovery Facilities (WRRFs) it takes to treat 75% of the wastewater of each state’s wastewater flow:

  • Iowa 70 Wastewater Treatment Plants with Wastewater flow (MGD) of 371
  • Missouri 30 Wastewater Treatment Plants with Wastewater flow (MGD) of 808
  • Kansas 35 Wastewater Treatment Plants with Wastewater flow (MGD) of 306
  • Minnesota 20 Wastewater Treatment Plants with Wastewater flow (MGD) of 502
  • Nebraska 15 Wastewater Treatment Plants with Wastewater flow (MGD) of 193