What are Biosolids? 

Biosolids are valuable byproducts of wastewater treatment. They are used as fertilizer or soil additives when applied to land.

Biosolids Management in Martin County

The Martin County Board of County Commissioners has approved a contract with Synagro South, LLC, to manage waste and recovery resources. This project will deliver a sustainable, cost-effective approach to managing biosolids. It aims to further protect local waterways, comply with state and local regulations, reduce environmental damage, and maximize resource recovery.

Why is Biosolids Management Important?

Biosolids can increase phosphorus and nitrogen levels in water, contributing to nutrient pollution. This can lead to harmful algal blooms and contaminate shallow drinking water supplies.

We’ve Come a Long Way

Since 1983, Martin County has focused on effective biosolids management using various dewatering and stabilization technologies, chemical injection processes, and composting programs. Growing concerns about the impact of land-applied biosolids on water quality, along with the need to improve and protect impaired waterways, have increased demand for innovative management solutions. Synagro’ s proposed Sedron Varcor technology represents a significant advancement over traditional drying and land application methods, offering:

  • Up to 97% reduction in energy use compared to conventional thermal dryers
  • Conversion of dewatered biosolids into reclaimed water, liquid fertilizer, and dry solids suitable for beneficial reuse or renewable fuel
  • Achievement of PFAS (forever chemicals) destruction through high-temperature processing

What's Next?

The 10-year contract with Synagro establishes a stable, predictable, cost-competitive, and technically innovative program for hauling and processing the County's 8,000 wet tons of sludge each year. A new processing plant will be constructed in Indiantown beginning in 2026, with a capacity to treat more than 330,000 wet tons annually. This facility will serve South Florida and deliver regional environmental benefits.