Are you prepping for biosolids application services on a parcel of property you own in Washington? While using biosolids for farming is a safe and eco-friendly solution to conventional chemical-based fertilizers, there are regulations to follow. Failure to follow state guidelines can lead to hefty fines and land audits. An important aspect is that you must restrict public access to the area once biosolids have been applied. The rules can vary depending on the situation, so here are the factors to consider.

Posting Is Required

Upon biosolids application, ensure a written notice is properly posted for the duration that access to the site is cordoned off. There needs to be a notice posted on all access points. In addition, there must be at least one notice posted for every half mile of the perimeter. 

Length of Time

The amount of time public access is to be restricted is based on the potential for public exposure. If the risk is deemed high, restrictions must be enforced for one year. When the probability of public exposure is low, you must restrict the site for 30 days.

Expectations

Regulatory expectations pertaining to public access restrictions can also be approved by the Washington State Dept. of Ecology. In some instances, a simple “No Trespassing” sign may be allowed, but only if the Washington State Dept. of Ecology gives the nod of approval.

Interested in Biosolids Application Services in Washington?

Now that you understand more about public access restrictions in Washington, you can create an action plan in accordance with state guidelines. Visit Tenelco Inc. to inquire about biosolids transport and septage receiving. Our crew can assist you in the permit acquisition and help navigate the complex laws and regulatory oversights.

Biosolids Application Services Experts in Washington

Serving the Municipalities of Western Washington and the Farmers of Eastern Washington

Posted on November 30, 2022 | Published by Ignite Local | Related Local Business

Biosolids application for agricultural use can be highly advantageous in Washington. This is a safer, eco-friendlier alternative to conventional chemical-based fertilizers. However, there are stringent harvesting restrictions that must be carefully followed once the biosolids have been applied. Be sure you follow these regulations to avoid violations.

Above-Ground Food Crops with No Contact

Crops grown above ground that don’t have direct contact with the biosolids can be harvested rather quickly after biosolid land application. These include common crops in the Pacific Northwest like cherries and wheat. The waiting period is just 30 days.

Above-Ground Food Crops with Contact

The harvesting period is usually longer for above-ground crops that have direct contact with biosolids. Examples include lettuce and cucumbers. These require a 14-month waiting period from the date of the biosolid application.

Root Food Crops

Common root food crops include potatoes and onions. These root vegetables often have direct contact with biosolids, resulting in a more extended waiting period. The period varies depending on how long the biosolids stay on the soil. If it’s less than four months, then the waiting period is 20 months. If more than four months, then it’s 38 months.

Feed and Fiber Crops

Feed and fiber crops, such as range land, pasture, trees and cotton, have shorter harvesting times. You can harvest these after just 30 days. However, for fiber crops like turf, waiting times can be as long as 12 months.

Need to Schedule Biosolids Application in Washington?

Do you require biosolids application services in Washington? Tenelco Inc. can assist with biosolid transport and septage receiving. We have the required permits and are up to date with state and federal guidelines. Find out more by contacting us today.

Biosolids Application Services Experts in Washington

Serving the Municipalities of Western Washington and the Farmers of Eastern Washington

Posted on October 30, 2022 | Published by Ignite Local | Related Local Business

The use of biosolids for agricultural use is permitted in Washington. This is actually a trending option as it’s a more environmentally friendly solution. Biosolids can improve soil health and not contaminate the groundwater. There are, however, requirements that must be in place before farmlands can apply biosolids. Learn the basic requirements for biosolids and verify that the company you hire goes through the proper channels and follows state/federal requirements.

Remove Manufactured Inerts

Before land application implementation, the biosolids must meet requirements for the removal of manufactured inerts. At a minimum, the material has to contain <1% by volume of approved inerts. In addition, the material must be screened via a bar screen with a maximum of 3/8 inch aperture. Other environmentally-approved materials of similar substances are acceptable.

Test the Soil 

Sites must undergo testing for pollutants before they can be eligible for biosolid land application. The material can’t surpass the ceiling concentration limit. Nutrient levels must also undergo a thorough examination. 

Determine the Agronomic Rate

You have to apply biosolids at the right agronomical rate. The rate is determined by nutrient concentrations in the soil. The company that supplies the materials is responsible for determining this rate. Verify that the company is able to provide this information when making arrangements for biosolids transportation. 

Restrict Public Access

Access to the location where biosolids are applied must be restricted to the general public. At a minimum, the sites must display off-limit signs for as long as the area is restricted. 

Need Assistance with Requirements for Biosolids Land Application in Washington?

You don’t have to know the requirements for biosolids application like the back of your hand. Tenelco Inc. can assist you with the permit process and walk you through the logistics. We also perform septage receiving for local businesses throughout Washington.

Help with Requirements for Biosolids Application in Washington

Serving the Municipalities of Western Washington and the Farmers of Eastern Washington

Posted on September 30, 2022 | Published by Ignite Local | Related Local Business

Farmers and ranchers in Washington understand the importance of using resources that promote the optimal growth of their crops. The more you invest in your crops now the better for future production. One such practice farmers are adopting is the use of biosolids as fertilizer. This is an environmentally friendly solution and a viable alternative to conventional chemical-based fertilizers. Here are some of the benefits of biosolids as a source of fertilizer.

Improved Output

Without the right care, you could see a major decrease in production as soil gradually loses its natural organic matter. Biosolids, though, can enhance crop yield. This is due to the high concentrations of nitrogen, phosphorus, and other essential elements. 

Soil Replenishment

Global demands for produce can put a significant strain on soil availability. Biosolids have the ability to restore organic matter. This is good for aeration and moisture retention. It’s for this reason that biosolids land application has become the main practice for regenerating long-abandoned mine sites. 

Zero Groundwater Pollution

Typical chemical fertilizers can be hazardous to you, your customers, and the environment. Biosolids, by contrast, release nitrogen gradually over the growing season. This makes over-fertilization a non-issue.

Interested in Using Biosolids as Fertilizer in Washington?

Do you own farmland in Washington? If so, using biosolids as fertilizer is a good practice to adopt that just might improve your bottom line. It also has the greater benefit of preserving the environment. If this is a change you want to adopt, contact Tenelco to discuss plans for your agricultural development. We perform biosolid transport as well as septage receiving. In addition, we have all the needed permits to ensure our clients are within regulation.

Experts in Using Biosolids as Fertilizer in Washington

Serving the Municipalities of Western Washington and the Farmers of Eastern Washington

Posted on August 30, 2022 | Published by Ignite Local | Related Local Business

Do you know what we do with the biosolids that we remove from your facility during a septage receiving process? We distribute the material to farmlands over Washington. This provides rich nutrients and is an eco-friendlier alternative to traditional fertilizer. Biosolids and land application is an intricate practice that ensures the biosolids are put to good reuse rather than being disposed of in a landfill. Learn all about the process and how it works.

Agriculture

Biosolids are useful for fertilizing crops. This can prove beneficial for farm owners; it helps cut down on costs and is also a sustainable way to add rich organic matter to the soil.

Mine Reclamation

There is also use for biosolids at mine sites. it can create vegetation in affected areas. Furthermore, the biosolids will assist in regenerating the soil over time. This is advantageous in surface areas with inadequate topsoil.

Forestry

Biosolids also have extensive application in forests and woodlands. The material provides rich nutrients that can foster the growth of timber. In turn, this enables more frequent harvest cycles in the timber industry.

Composting

Residential and public gardens can benefit from biosolids as well. You can easily apply, store, and transport biosolids for use in this land application format.

Interested in Biosolids and Land Application in Washington?

Is your business due for biosolid removal? We not only remove biosolids but also put them to good use and in a way that benefits the environment at large. Contact Tenelco Inc. in Lake Stevens to make an appointment today. We follow all biosolids and land application procedures to strict federal and state guidelines. This ensures professional efficiency and removal completed with an appropriate timeline. 

Experts in Biosolids and Land Application in Washington

Serving the Municipalities of Western Washington and the Farmers of Eastern Washington

Posted on July 30, 2022 | Published by Ignite Local | Related Local Business

How familiar are you with the biosolids land application regulations in Washington? Agricultural areas can really benefit from biosolids, as they provide the soil with nutrition-rich organic matter. It’s also an eco-friendlier alternative to traditional fertilizer. This is a good way to make use of biosolids, rather than disposing of the material in a landfill. If you work in agricultural operations and think you may have use for biosolids, then here are some pointers to be mindful of.

Are There Many Regulations?

Rules regarding biosolids land application can be found in 40 CFR Part 503. There are guidelines for the process and for the biosolids materials before the application is allowed. These measures were established to ensure quality control. Biosolids removal and septage receiving are tightly regulated as well.

Can Biosolids Be Applied Anywhere?

Before applying biosolids, a surveyor must assess your land for viability. This includes an inspection of the soil, terrain, crops, and groundwater. There are also different biosolid categories, each with its specific application and rules for application.

Where Can I Find More Information?

You can get the information you need in the guide A Plain English Guide to the EPA Part 503 Biosolids Rule published by the Environmental Protection Agency. This guide is suitable for all levels and written in laymen-friendly terms.

Want to Learn More About Biosolids Land Application Regulations in Washington?

Is biosolid application something you’re contemplating? Entrust the process to the pros at Tenelco Inc. in Lake Stevens for assistance. We are familiar with the biosolids land application regulations as it pertains to the state of Washington. We’re also familiar with the steps, from permit acquisitions to the actual land application. Contact us today to learn more. 

Help With Biosolids Land Application Regulations in Washington

Serving the Municipalities of Western Washington and the Farmers of Eastern Washington

Posted on June 30, 2022 | Published by Ignite Local | Related Local Business

Are you in search of a biosolid removal service in Washington? With a multitude of local and federal regulations pertaining to waste disposal, selecting the right company is integral. Here are some factors to be mindful of when researching companies in your vicinity.

High Company Rating

Check the company’s ratings, which the company should have available on its website in the form of reviews from past clients. The reviews should be from other clients that rely on biosolid removal in their given industry.

State and Federal Permits

Biosolids removal and transportation are tightly regulated by multiple governing bodies. This is not something that can be done by independent or non-regulated contractors. This is why it’s important to verify that companies carry both state and federal permits. Companies that have neither or only one may not perform the job to the strictest standards, leading to subpar quality.

Continue Reading →

Do you need to make arrangements for biosolids transport in Washington? You may have questions about how the process works if you never scheduled such types of services before. Here are some questions you may have that clients often inquire about.

What Are Biosolids?

Biosolids are organic compounds that contain nutrients. They’re the byproducts of local sewage treatment and can be used as fertilizer to boost the health of the soil. Before undergoing treatment, biosolids are known as sewage sludge.

How Are Biosolids Generated and Processed?

The biosolid treatment process begins before the wastewater even gets to the sewage facility. Pre-treatment includes filtering all harmful contaminants. The facility removes solid waste, after which the sewage undergoes a number of biological and chemical processes to purify the water. Upon sanitization, the resulting biosolids are transported to farmlands and other locations for distribution. 

Where Are Biosolids Used?

The biosolids are used in various land application processes. The majority of the use is agricultural. The biosolids provide nourishment to the soil, which promotes crop growth. This reduces the need for artificial and chemical-based fertilizer. Currently, all 50 states have farmlands that use biosolids to some degree.

Need Biosolids Transport Services in Washington?

Do you need to make arrangements for biosolids transport in Washington? Now that you have a more solid understanding of what biosolids are and how it works, it’s time to contact the professionals at Tenelco Inc. in Lake Stevens. We provide a number of biosolids removal and septage receiving services. Our company has the licensure and years of experience to perform the task to strict industry standards. We have established a working relationship with various companies and city administrations over the years. Learn how we may be of service.

Biosolids Transport Services in Washington

Serving the Municipalities of Western Washington and the Farmers of Eastern Washington

Posted on April 30, 2022 | Published by Ignite Local | Related Local Business

Do you require biosolids removal for your facility in Washington? It’s essential to hire a waste management company you can trust. Pinpointing the right company does require a bit of research. Here are some biosolids removal questions to ask to assist you in your search.

Are You Licensed?

A good question to ask a biosolids removal and transport company is whether it’s licensed. Such services must follow hazard waste disposal regulations at the federal and state level. You want a company that has undergone the intensive process to obtain a license as proof that it has met the rigorous requirements. Stay away from companies that are unable to show proof of licensure.

How Much Will the Service Cost?

The company should provide a cost estimate in writing upon inspecting your waste removal needs. With a quote, you can compare the price against other companies operating in the local area. Carefully read the contract to watch out for hidden surplus fees. Continue Reading →

Are you searching for affordable biosolids removal services in Washington? Perhaps you own a septic system company or run a municipal waste-water treatment center. Either way, it’s important to find a waste management service you can trust while also staying within budget. Here are some tips to assist you in your search for a legitimate company that provides fair pricing.

1. Research Local Averages

Begin by researching the average cost of biosolids removal in your local region. This will give you a pricing reference to work with and help you establish a realistic budget. This also helps you eliminate candidates by immediately spotting companies that charge too high.

2. Schedule Multiple Consultations

Contact at least three companies to acquire their estimates. Speaking with a company representative is also a good gauge of the type of service you receive. Does the team appear knowledgeable in industry practices? Is the crew courteous? Continue Reading →