PFAS in biosolids: Wisconsin’s cleanup strategy

Biosolids are a byproduct of domestic sewage treatment at wastewater treatment plants. After chemical treatment and testing, this nutrient-rich organic material is commonly repurposed for land application.

In Wisconsin, more than 85% of biosolids are reused as inexpensive fertilizer replacement, conditioner or soil amendment. However, per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in biosolids and industrial sludge raise serious public safety and regulatory concerns.

While Wisconsin has established criteria for certain PFAS compounds, no federal standards govern PFAS in biosolids. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is conducting a risk-based assessment to develop national guidelines for PFAS in biosolids. In the interim, the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) recommends the following strategy to limit land application of contaminated municipal biosolids and industrial sludges.

Wisconsin's strategy to limit land application of PFAS-affected biosolids and industrial sludge

Until a fully vetted EPA risk assessment is completed, the Wisconsin DNR recommended implementing the following measures to manage PFAS in biosolids.

Proposed PFAS sampling requirements for land application

Before land application, the Wisconsin DNR recommends regular sampling to monitor PFAS levels and comprehensive testing and sampling from facilities with suspected elevated concentrations of PFAS. These efforts are a key part of the strategy to reduce risk and ensure the safe reuse of biosolids.

The Wisconsin DNR requires permittee sampling for PFAS of municipal biosolids and industrial sludges in WPDES permit applications and WPDES permits based on the application sample results.

Fehr Graham can help address Wisconsin PFAS in biosolids

The widespread use of PFAS compounds in consumer products and industrial processes has resulted in PFAS in municipal wastewater and biosolids. Wastewater treatment plants act as a central point of collection. They can also potentially serve as a location to control and mitigate the risks of releasing PFAS into the environment.

Fehr Graham offers expertise in wastewater engineering, helping municipalities navigate the complexities of PFAS regulation and biosolid management.

Our team can help you:

• Conduct PFAS sampling and analysis.
• Develop strategies for source reduction.
• Design, engineer and oversee compliant wastewater treatment solutions.
• Secure funding for system upgrades and infrastructure improvements.

Our successful track record in wastewater engineering and grant management speaks for itself. We are proud to provide support throughout every stage of the process in Wisconsin and the Midwest. Check out our recent wastewater engineering projects and more information here.

Partner with Fehr Graham

At Fehr Graham, we are committed to helping Wisconsin communities address the environmental challenges posed by PFAS in biosolids. Our licensed engineers can collaborate with community leaders, landowners, farmers and business owners to design effective wastewater management systems that comply with evolving regulatory standards. We can also help secure funding for system upgrades.

When you choose to partner with Fehr Graham, you can be assured project outcomes will comply with all applicable regulatory standards and serve the greater needs of your community.