Biosolids can be a cost-effective source of nutrients to support crop production. Responsible use of this resource, however, entails carefully balancing its nutrient content with both crop needs and with soil analyses. The following publications are intended to help landowners better understand the issues surrounding the use of biosolids and to guide them in determining appropriate application rates.
The Manual for Best Management Practices for Land Application of Biosolids provides information regarding the content of both plant nutrients and environmental contaminants in biosolids, and it discusses ways in which mismanagement of these materials can affect environmental quality. The manual also specifies management practices that allow landowners to maximize the benefits that biosolids can provide to their crops while minimizing the risk to soil and water resources.
The Worksheet for Land Application of Biosolids provides guidance for calculating appropriate rates for land application of biosolids based on soil test information, crop yield goals, and the nutrient content of biosolids.
The NH Phosphorus Index is a spreadsheet developed by NH-NRCS to calculate the risk of phosphorus losses from the field based on field practices, soil characteristics, and cropping practices.
