From: Harper Bob E.
Sent: Thursday, September 21, 2000 10:09 AM
To: Kyle E Rambo
Subject: Webster Field
Good morning,
I'm interested in specifics on the dumping of the processed waste on the fields here at Webster Field. How much is being dumped, what/when can they plant, who's tracking it, etc.
Thanks.
v/r bob harper
301-862-8486
From: Rambo, Kyle E
Sent: Tuesday, September 26, 2000 9:59 PM
To: 'Harper Bob E.'
Subject: RE: Webster Field Sludge
Hi Bob,
The application of biosolids or digested sewage sludge on WFA (or anywhere in the state, for that matter) is closely regulated and inspected by the Solid Waste Management Division of the Maryland Department of Environment. The applicant in this case is Mr. William Cryer, the farmer who holds the agriculture outlease at WFA. His permit number is S-97-18-4354-A. We allow the application of sludge for soil conditioner or amendments on the farm fields as a normal agricultural practice, just as we would allow the application of manure or synthetic fertilizers, etc. The material contains valuable organic matter and nitrogen. The agricultural outlease program at NAS and WFA directly supports our grounds maintenance and airfield management plans.
The specifics of exactly how much sludge can be applied on each field, how it is applied and when, is regulated by MDE as a condition of the permit which is required. They consider all pertinent factors to ensure protection of human health and the environment, as well as to reduce things like nuisance odors.
I will tell you that vegetable crops for direct human consumption are not to be planted on fields applied with sludge for a period of 3 years. Forage crops for livestock may be grown. The quantity of sludge permitted to be applied depends on the levels of nutrients and metals in both the sludge and the receiving soil, based on laboratory testing. MDE does not want excess nutrients or metals leaching from the soil.
MDE inspectors make their own inspections of the site, as well as my staff members. Any problems with the applicator or his operation can be reported directly to MDE Compliance Division at 410-631-3424.
Hope this answers your questions. If I can be of any further assistance, please let me know.
Respectfully,
Kyle Rambo, Natural Resources Manager
Code 832100A
Naval Air Station
22541 Johnson Road, NAS-PW, B1410
Patuxent River, MD 20670-1700
(301) 342-3670 or (301) 757-0005
Fax (301) 757-1889 DSN 342-
ramboke@navair.navy.mil