Biosolids National Convening

Biosolids practitioners today are at a critical juncture and face an array of pressures that are both challenging and potentially advantageous. While decades of studies have shown that biosolids can be safely used for the production of agricultural crops, news headlines and some local and state government action shows a body of growing concern. How can biosolids practitioners prepare for the future, positioning their programs to address current and emerging challenges while also preparing to leverage opportunities? To explore these areas, the Water Environment Federation (WEF) convened a gathering of biosolids practitioners and experts from across North America to contribute their knowledge to a strategic conversation. This invitation-only dialogue took place on November 20-21, 2019 in Alexandria, Va.

Listening Sessions

Ahead of the national stakeholder meeting, WEF hosted Biosolids Listening Session at various events around the country!  These listening sessions  captured regional perspectives of the biosolids industry, including regulatory, market, research and workforce challenges and opportunities.   They informed the national meeting and ensured we addressed issues from around the country as we planned for the future of biosolids.  The meetings took place at the locations below.

• WEAT Biosolids / Odor & Corrosion Control Conference, San Marcos, TX
• Kansas WEA/AWWA Annual Conference, Topeka, KS
• Chesapeake TRICON, Ocean City, MD
• PNCWA Annual Conference, Portland, OR
• Rocky Mountain Water Conference, Keystone, CO
• NEWEA & NEBRA Conference, Springfield, MA

Convening Documents

• WEF Biosolids National Convening Background Issues Memo and Discussion Document

  • This document was distributed to convening participants before the meeting to help prepare for participation in the conversation as it outlines the challenges and opportunities facing biosolids practitioners.  It was developed during 10 subject-matter expert interviews, eight facilitated listening sessions with experts in the field around the United States and Canada and a background desk analysis of current issues facing biosolids management.

• WEF Biosolids National Convening Meeting Synthesis
  

  • The main output of the convening, this document contains brief descriptions of meeting presentations, summaries of the meeting participants’ discussions around needs and gaps and attachments that summarize three content areas of discussion, and four attachments that provide more detail on the discussion, including a suggested model for biosolids leadership going forward.