The Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago (MWRD) will continue to accept applications for its 2012 Biosolids Beneficial Reuse Awards until April 30, 2012.
MWRD biosolids are a safe byproduct of the water treatment process that can be used to improve soil fertility and soil-moisture-holding capacity. MWRD biosolids provide tremendous benefits and can be used for construction of golf courses, parks, and athletic fields and to fertilize agricultural land and provide organic matter and nutrients to sod farms and nurseries.
These awards recognize individuals, park districts, villages, schools, golf courses, athletic clubs, turf grass maintenance companies and other entities for their efforts to maximize the benefits that MWRD’s biosolids beneficial reuse program brings to their operations and communities. Activities completed after January 1, 2007 are eligible for the awards.
The beneficial reuse of biosolids can be demonstrated by meeting any one of or a combination of the following standards:
• Continuous commitment to maximize and improve the cost-effectiveness of using biosolids;
• Promotion such as, but not limited to, referrals and field demonstrations; and
• Community education regarding the benefits of biosolids.
Two separate awards will be given - one for an individual award and one for an organization. An individual or organization is eligible to receive an award once in every five years.
“MWRD’s biosolids production is the largest of its kind in the country,” said David St. Pierre, MWRD executive director. “This year, we will remove and process approximately 225,000 dry tons of concentrated sewage through our three handling facilities and we will produce over 135,000 dry tons of biosolids for beneficial use. We are able to have such an efficient organization because we have extremely dedicated staff.”
Applications will be evaluated based on innovative use of biosolids, extent (amount, duration, and percent of operation) of biosolids use, activities and capital investment that demonstrate long-term commitment and how you promote biosolids use or educate the community. Include results using figures, illustrations, narrative and photos. The evaluation process may include a site visit.
Awards will be presented at an MWRD board meeting this summer.
Source: MWRD
