2021 Biosolids Management Master Plan
All Niagara Region projects

About the project

Niagara is growing and in response to that growth, we need to make sure that we plan our infrastructure and services to meet increasing demands. One of those plans that might not be the first to come to mind is our Biosolids Management Master Plan. More people means more wastewater, which also means more biosolids and a higher demand for treatment and management of these materials.

Biosolids

Biosolids are the organic material resulting from the physical, chemical and biological treatment of sewage sludge generated at wastewater treatment plants.

2021 Biosolids Management Master Plan

The purpose of the 2021 Biosolids Management Master Plan update study is to plan for the future management of biosolids in a manner that is transparent, sustainable, reliable, environmentally friendly, cost-effective and flexible. The study will also provide an avenue to explore opportunities for a range of options to manage biosolids in the region.

The objectives of the study are to:

• Document the status of the existing biosolids management program at each treatment plant, in terms of process capacity, availability and reliability
• Document the status of the existing program at Garner Road Biosolids Facility, in terms of process capacity, availability and reliability
• Identify the limitations in the existing programs with consideration for the opportunities and constraints related to the future management of biosolids
• Complete a comprehensive review of a broad range of biosolids management options available locally and globally and identify those feasible for each facility
• Evaluate and select preferred options for each facility and the Region's operations as a whole
• Identify, evaluate and recommend preferred biosolids management methods

Process

The study will follow the master planning process as established by the Municipal Engineer's Association Class Environmental Assessment process for master plans, which is an approved Ontario Environmental Assessment process. The Biosolids Management Master Plan update will satisfy phases one and two of the Class Environmental Assessment process.

Project timeline