Horticultural Studies (HortiS) 2001, Vol 18, Num, 3     (Pages: 132-142)

AGRICULTURAL UTILIZATION OF MUNICIPAL SEWAGE SLUDGE

Bülent TOPÇUOĞLU 1

Viewed : 1173 - Downloaded : 832 According to experimental results, there has been valuable data that sludge applications to soil has increased soil fertility and improved soil physical properties. On the other hand, undesired heavy metal accumulation has occurred by sludge applications, but this accumulation levels has not yet been determined above the food and fodder norms. It is stated that as long as the agricultural use of sludge in the production of crops for human consumption follows current regulations and guidelines, it present a manageable risks on crop production, environment and consumers. Before soils reach regulatory limit of chemical pollutant loading by sludge applications, additional information will be needed to asses potential long term impacts of sludge on ground water quality and on the sustainability of soils for crop production. It is thought that in the state of having more alternative organic matter source alternatives, application of treatment sludge in plant growing areas except for food crop production is a more safely alternative disposal; also educational programs for sludge utilization should be organized. Keywords :