AWWA JAW66308

Excessive phosphorus (P) in runoff from manure applied to farmland is a threat to water quality across the United States. This study investigated the addition of drinking water treatment residuals (WTRs) to manure to bind P and decrease the risk of P runoff from land-applied manure. Results indicated that even small doses of WTRs bind some of the P in manure and reduce the amount of P available to be carried into streams and lakes. Treatment of manure to reduce its pollution potential is an emerging area of agricultural nonpoint source pollution control. Most previous work in this area has focused on poultry agriculture; this work suggests that WTRs can be effective on dairy manure as well, without elevating trace metal concentrations in the manure. Beneficial use of WTRs can reduce utility costs for byproduct disposal. Furthermore, use of residuals to control nutrient pollution can help improve and protect water quality, providing significant benefit for both the utility and the public. Includes 32 references, tables, figures.