Biosolids Management Plan and Design

Carlisle Borough set out to modernize biosolids management at the Carlisle Regional Water Pollution Control facility while meeting evolving regulatory requirements and community expectations. The Borough needed a clear, actionable path to achieve Class A biosolids stabilization, reduce odors, and support long-term, cost-effective operations.

At the same time, they had to evaluate existing infrastructure, navigate complex state and federal regulations, and identify viable end-use opportunities for beneficial reuse, all while maintaining reliable treatment performance.

GFT partnered with the borough to develop a comprehensive, step-by-step biosolids management plan grounded in technical insight and real-world application. Our team began by assessing current operations, establishing baseline conditions, and evaluating existing solids handling facilities and equipment.

We then analyzed the regulatory landscape and conducted a regional market assessment to identify reuse opportunities. Building on this foundation, we developed and screened multiple treatment alternatives, collaborating closely with borough stakeholders through an alternatives screening workshop to align solutions with their goals.

From there, we advanced four viable process trains for detailed evaluation and performed comparative analyses to identify the most effective path forward. We documented our findings in a concise, decision-focused biosolids management plan and recommended anaerobic digestion and thermal drying with upgraded sludge thickening and dewatering systems.

Following plan completion, we advanced the design, moving the project from planning into implementation with a clear path forward.