Raleigh Water Promotes Class A Biosolids Program at Southern Farm Show to Advance Circular Economy

Wedoany.com Report on Feb 12th, Raleigh Water's biosolids team showcased its resource recovery efforts at the 2026 Southern Farm Show, highlighting how the city transforms residuals from the wastewater treatment process into Class A biosolids for use in agriculture, landscaping, and other applications.

At the event, staff detailed the processing of biosolids produced at the Neuse River Resource Recovery Facility. The material undergoes pathogen removal and odor control to become a nutrient-rich product suitable for farm fertilization, garden soil amendment, lawn care, and compost blending. The facility currently produces approximately 40 dry tons of biosolids per day. Operations adhere to strict environmental regulatory standards, with landfill disposal available as a contingency.

"We successfully signed up 16 new third-party customers for our Class A biosolids," said Chris Sowers, Raleigh Water's Biosolids Manager, in a news release. He noted that the show's promotion led to several new partnerships.

The utility stated that this resource recovery program helps support circular economy goals by diverting wastewater residuals from disposal to beneficial use markets. This approach meets regulatory requirements, protects public health, and returns nutrients to the economic cycle.