Biosolids

After 20 days in the digesters (the final stage of the treatment process for solids), the biosolids, as they are now called, are pumped twelve kilometres north of Saskatoon via two pipelines. The biosolids are then stored in asphalt-lined storage cells. Each spring and fall these cells are pumped out, and the biosolids are spread on nearby farmer's fields by a process called liquid injection.

The treatment process at the Wastewater Treatment Plant removes the dangerous pathogens in the solids. The biosolids that are left over are an excellent soil conditioner and fertilizer. Using digested sludge as a soil conditioner adds nutrients back into the soil as well as aiding in moisture retention.

Liquid Injection

The solids are removed from the deep storage cells by first mixing the sludge, and then pumping it through a pipeline and injecting it directly into the land.  The sludge is injected at a depth of 0 - 10 centimeters depending on soil conditions and the density of the biosolids.

Currently this service is offered free of charge to farmers on a rotating basis. The use of digested sludge as a soil conditioner is a common practice in many municipalities in Canada.