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Municipal Sludge - Beneficially Used
Wastewater treatment plant sludge was beneficially reused at a rate of 75% in 2012, diverting this material from disposal and conserving valuable landfill space.
This Indicator tracks the amount of wastewater treatment plant sludge that is beneficially reused versus disposed at a landfill. The sludge is used as a soil additive and may be directly land-applied as a fertilizer, composted, or processed into a liming agent. In all cases, the sludge provides a benefit to the crop being grown as well as saving the farmer from purchasing costly fertilizers and other soil additives. Maine continues to be a leader among New England states in the beneficial reuse of wastewater treatment plant sludge. 2011 data compiled by the North East Biosolids & Residuals Association shows beneficial use numbers for the New England states as follows: Connecticut - 1%; Massachusetts - 38%; New Hampshire - 66%; Rhode Island - 15%; Vermont - 29%; and Maine - 63%.
Contact: Carla Hopkins 207-215-3314