Development of a water industry manual for biosolids use in short rotation forestry

New uses for sewage sludge or biosolids are continually being sought in response to the closure of existing outlets and the increase in the quantity of biosolids which are being produced. Agriculture is the primary use for biosolids in the U.K. and is one which is expanding. Short rotation forestry (SRF), the closest of the biomass fuel crops to full commercial production, has been identified as having several characteristics which make it potentially useful as an outlet for biosolids. A 6-year research programme into its use as a fertiliser for SRF has given rise to an operators manual which aims to assist biosolids managers to assess the value of adopting SRF into biosolids recycling operations. The manual describes the stages in SRF establishment and management and sets out how biosolids application may be integrated to best effect. The limited level of operational experience means that application techniques have not been widely tested to date. Appendices provide details of individuals and organisations to contact for additional information, and useful publications. The loose-leaf format will facilitate updating as necessary. The paper discusses the purpose of a document of this type, and describes its recommendations and possible impact.