Land treatment of abattoir wastes : [dissertation, Diploma in Natural Resources, Lincoln College]

Abstract

The land treatment of abattoir wastes is a potential source of ground water nitrogen. Nitrogen pollution of ground water is a pressing worldwide problem. Not only can high nitrogen concentrations in drinking water from wells be a health hazard, but also, excess nitrogen in ground water can contribute to accelerated eutrophication of surface waters. A review is made of the general methods of treatment and disposal of abattoir wastes including reference to the specific principles of land application. The theoretical concepts of nitrogen balancing between the soil, plants, ground water and the atmosphere are examined. The Islington Freezing Works are used as a case study in determining the importance of the introduction of nitrogen into ground water from a land treatment system. Recommendations are made for minimizing nitrogen percolation to ground water from field spread effluent.