Considerations for Dairy Farms Regarding Use of Sewage Sludges, Sludge Products and Septage

Abstract

Sewage sludges and sludge-based products can be used as agricultural soil amendments. They can provide a free or low-cost source of organic matter, nutrients and sometimes lime. Those entities responsible for sludge management provide farmers with their assessment of the benefits of land application. There are specific considerations regarding sludge use on dairy farms for animal, human, soil and plant health as well as for relationships with neighbors. This document is intended to help dairy farmers and their advisors make informed decisions regarding the use of sewage sludges, sludge-based products and septage and to outline measures that can reduce the risks that may be associated with application on dairy farms.