Are the standards regulating the use of biosolids subject to change?
The biggest change was be the adoption of the Federal biosolids management regulations, 40 CFR Part 503. These regulations, which were established using environmental and health risk based assessments, provide a scientific basis for the use of biosolids throughout the United States. When used in land reclamation or in agriculture at rates based on crop nutrient needs, biosolids will not harm the environment or impact human health. There is extensive research establishing that the long-term use of biosolids is safe and will not cause degradation of ground or surface waters, soils, will not adversely affect crops grown on these soils, nor affect animals fed the crops or grazed on land where biosolids were applied. Like any chemical used in production agriculture, biosolids must be used in accordance with sound agronomic practices and must meet the standards set by the Federal and State government if it is to remain safe and effective. Federal regulations set down minimum requirements for
