The process of characterization itself provides information to users of the processed biosolids and thereby adds value. EPA initiated discussions to expand the 503 standards to manure with industry and scientific interests, but emerging strategies appear to favor the expansion of existing prescribed practices, rather than development of outcome-based performance standards. The benefits of reuse versus containment can be illustrated by comparing the environmental risks associated with two caged-layer systems. Caged layer manure today can leave the chicken house in a dry form. Earlier management relied on liquid systems and anaerobic lagoons to treat the manure.
Markets currently exist for composted layer manure.
This value added product can be profitably transported from the feeding facility and distributed regionally through department stores. EPA has long recognized the reduced environmental risk of dry versus wet manure products. This program reduces risks of methane entering the atmosphere by bolstering the production and marketing of farm-produced energy. Environmental policies that encourage the development of manure product markets in the areas of land application, feed ingredients and energy, remove manure risks from the environment. Outcome-based performance standards for carbon, nitrogen, phosphorus and pathogens establish product definitions for reuse, just as the 503 biosolids rule has done for domestic sewage sludge.