A commercial composter hired Sand County Environmental, Inc. to help permit a field for land-application of stormwater runoff collected from the composting area. A spring round of soil test pits confirmed the soil’s capacity to accept the liquids. While we did find mottles indicating periodic perched water in the silty subsurface, our observations indicated that layer is only saturated seasonally, i.e. when frost inhibits drainage. We pointed out to regulators that, under those conditions, the field would be inaccessible to a tractor and loaded tank anyway, acting as a natural safeguard against spreading at inappropriate times.
Using the information gathered in the field, we were able to show the receiving soil has more than enough pore space to handle the applied liquid. Plants and native microbes will do the rest!
This is an efficient way for the composting run-off to be naturally treated right at the production site, using an agency-approved and scientifically-based application process. As an added bonus, the nutrient-rich liquid will feed the plants and soil food web, building a fertile soil rich in organic matter.
Professional Soil Scientists at SCE can advise and permit landspreading for agriculture and industry;
contact us to discuss soil-based treatment solution options for you. ... See MoreSee Less
Sand County Environmental, Inc. staff member Drew Rakers has achieved a significant milestone by earning his Professional Engineer (P.E.) certification! As a licensed P.E. Drew can sign off on engineering plans and reports within his area of expertise, and the certification means he does so with a high degree of professionalism, knowledge, and ethics. This designation was the result of many years of hard work consisting of earning a B.S. in Environmental Engineering from University of Wisconsin – Platteville, passing two levels of rigorous exams, and working closely with other P.E.s for four years. We are proud to have Drew as part of our team – please help us congratulate him for this huge achievement! ... See MoreSee Less