Biosolids
Biosolids are nutrient-rich organic materials processed from treated sewage sludge (the solid component of sewage removed during treatment).
The sludge is dried and composted for at least three years to satisfy guidelines set by the Environment Protection Authority. It then becomes known as biosolids and is a product ready for beneficial reuse as a soil conditioner on local farms, mainly for broad acre agriculture, pasture and cropping.
Once processed, biosolids look, smell and feel like dark, rich organic soil.
This novel approach to reuse delivers environmental and economic benefits for farmers and for Wannon Water and avoids the problem of biosolids building up in stockpiles.
We operate two major sites to process sludge into biosolids - one at Camperdown and the other in Hamilton.
The sludge drying process can occasionally create odours which aren’t harmful to health but may impact people in the nearby area. We undertake monitoring and adjust our operations to suit wind conditions.
We also have on-site misters that can spray natural deodoriser during the sludge movement processes to reduce odours. The mist is a natural blend of essential oils, food grade surfactants and purified water.
Read more in our Biosolids Information Sheet.
