Biosolids

Biosolids Program

Purpose
The solids generated from the primary and secondary treatment processes are incorporated into a beneficial and environmentally sound reuse program. The South Columbus Water Resource Facility (SCWRF) generates approximately 5,000 dry tons per year of biosolids. The solids are anaerobically digested primary and waste activated sludge. The Biosolids program must maintain compliance with the Georgia Environmental Protection Department (EPD) and the US EPA Part "503" Biosolids Regulations.

New Class A Technology
A new innovative Process to Further Reduce Pathogens (PFRP) is being developed which will cost effectively produce a Class A biosolids product. The process was originally suggested during sludge studies consisting of sequenced thermophilic reactors. The process has been confirmed in bench scale studies at the University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill and a prototype unit at the Columbus wastewater plant. The new patent for this project has been donated to the Water Environment Research Foundation so as to be available to other public systems. This project, will further enhance CWW's options for biosolids disposal.

Organization
The Columbus Water Works is a municipal enterprise operation under the direction of a five member board. The day to day operations are directed by the President, Steve Davis. All treatment operations are managed by the Division of Water Resources, Managed Maintenance and Security which is led by Senior V.P. Cliff Arnett and Vice President Lynn Campbell. The Superintendent of the South Columbus Water Resource Facility is Mike Taylor under which the Biosolids operations are directed.