Kyle,
We've been on partial reuse now for about two years. By partial I mean 100% about 5 nights a week, then back to our wells the other two. Attached is a guideline I got from PACE Turf. It's a guideline, and I'm sure is different in your location. But, by using this as a base, I've realized that we get some really good effluent, comparatively speaking. See below for answers to your questions.
Kyle Fick said:
So my questions are:
how does effluent water change your fertility programs?Not much. At least not on our sandy soil Yours may be different. We calculated that the 70,000,000 gals per year we apply equates to a little over .25#N/m at the 10ppm Nitrate levels they keep the water. Our plant was going through the denitrification process and trying to bring that number closer to a 4. We worked with them and explained our needs, and now they keep it higher, around a 10-12ppm.
How does it affect the pH (usually basic correct), carbonate and bicarbonates, as well as sodium levels?Our effluent pH is around 7.2. Not bad. Our ground water is a 7.6. So not much of a change. Also, our bicarbonate level was very low. we do still apply Calcium to flush on a monthly basis, as I see no negative effect of doing this otherwise. Our sodium is still good in the water we receive, therefor no need for additional flushing.
Is there an EPA standard to "guestimate" what we'll be looking at for a final product? Take a look at the attachment.
Any other detrimental, or positive effects to add would be welcomed. Get a contract stating how much water you will need to take on a daily basis, and what they will be required to send you. Of course, as long as you have a backup, this may not be an issue. I'd also lock in a price. We pay $.08/1,000 gallons. Others in our area are free, up to $.40/1,000.
Thanks to any and all that apply.
I also hired a guy that helped me better understand this stuff. Was well worth what we paid him. I can pass on his number if you would like.