Project Number: 1265-32630-002-03
Project Type: Reimbursable

Start Date: Mar 01, 2003
End Date: Oct 01, 2005

Objective:
Characterize the type and concentration of microbial bioaerosols (including endotoxin) emitted during land application of Class B biosolids and manure in various parts of Pennsylvania. In addition, odor on-site and at 50 and 400 ft from the fenceline will be measured using a portable olfactometer. Meteorological data will be recorded simultaneously.

Approach:
At each site, air samples will be obtained prior to and during land application, up and downwind of the equipment/field and at a uniform 50 and 400 ft from the 'fenceline' edge of application area. Airborne microbes collected using impingers, impactors, and cyclones will be analyzed via: 1) direct microscopic particle counts of total viable and nonviable bacteria and fungi by vital staining; 2) endotoxin via LAL colorimetric assay; and 3) volumetric concentrations (colony- or plaque forming units m-1 air) of specific groups and types of viable bacteria and active indicators of enteric virus: Total heterotrophic bacteria and fungi; total viable gram-negative bacteria; fecal coliforms, E. coli and Salmonella; fecal streptococci (enterococci) and Staphylococcus aureaus; coliphage and enterovirus. Microbe concentration data will be analyzed and correlated with odor measurements, atmospheric conditions, and microbial content of solids; method, type, and rate of application will also be considered. This should provide a better understanding of conditions prone to emissions of bioaerosols and odors and help inform appliers/public about any need to improve management of land application operations from a bioaerosols air quality perspective.

Project Team

Millner, Patricia

Project Annual Reports

FY 2003

Related National Programs

Manure and Byproduct Utilization (206)