USDA Soil Stories #1

You may be wondering why I am posting this video about soil science. Considering that I have been working on water issues for 5 years (with a "slight" detour in law enforcement), it might be strange. However,  in waste water treatment, what is left after the water is cleaned is.....Biosolids or sludge as it is called in the UK.

Biosolids are a nutrient-rich, highly organic material developed through extensive treatment. Biosolids are alive with microbes and provide plants with rich source of nutrients. The are cheaper than chemical fertilizers and are a form of recycling. Think of farming as pulling out nutrients from the soil to grow food...we eat the food and we can return our processed waste material back to the soil to nurture the next generation of crops.   In the coming weeks, I will be learning more about soil science, biosolids and there safe use on our  lands.

If you live near Chicago and want to learn more about soil science, you can visit the Field Museum's Underground Adventure exhibit.

Web soil survey is a cool way to learn about soils in your neighborhood.