Abstract |
A users' handbook addresses sewage sludge application rates to agricultural lands. Based on a model, tables are presented for ten or more major crops in 42 states or portions of states. Tabular application rate data are presented for sludge application rates in 42 areas. These rates consider the crops grown, their expected yield, the nature of the sludge (aerobic or anaerobic), type of application (surface or soil incorporated), nature of the soil, and land slope. A model also is presented by which site specific application rates can be estimated. Considered in the application rates are prevention of damage to crops, protection of neighboring waters from pollution by erosion of applied sludge, and rates of use of nutrients by the crops grown. Resulting sludge application rates are considered conservative to reduce risk to the land and crops, and nonpoint pollution of waters. |