PFAS SEWAGE SLUDGE
Sewage sludge, applied to an estimated 70 million acres, is under increasing scrutiny. Several states have banned its use due to concerns about persistent chemicals, often called "forever chemicals." As calls for nationwide testing intensify, the EPA recently released the "Human Impact Sewer Sludge Risk Assessment" on January 14, 2025. Notably, this assessment omits the potential impacts on soil, water, agriculture, livestock, and the economy.
Helpful References
OUR CAPABILITIES
OWNER DATA: DRS provides comprehensive property ownership data that includes specific property details of the application site. With such a wide radius of probable impact, details of neighboring properties are also included.
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APPLICATION MAPS: DRS also produces a site application overview map showing the surrounding area of impacted properties. These maps are effective in notifying the adjacent owners their proximity to application.
Non-Treated VS Treated
Concentrations of PFAS ≥ LOQ in two soil layers from 10 farms in northeastern US are compared. The top panels (0–15 cm) and bottom panels (15–30 cm) display results from treatment fields (biosolids use) on the right and control fields (no biosolids history) on the left. Empty bars signify PFAS concentrations < LOQ.
PFAS CORRELATIONS IN SOIL PROPERTIES
Proactive State Actions
Michigan requires testing biosolids for PFAS and prohibits use above certain levels. Maine and Connecticut have banned the use of biosolids completely.