USGS Independent Monitoring Program
In 1999, the Metro District initiated an Independent Monitoring Program with USGS. The USGS studied the effects of the Metro District’s land application of biosolids program on the METROGRO Farm. Due to public concern about potential environmental contamination from biosolids applications; biosolids, soils, groundwater, streambed sediment, surface water, and crops were sampled and analyzed. The Program continued through 2003. A scientific investigative report from the six-year study was released in 2004.
Throughout the Program’s progression, the Metro District organized an independent stakeholder group to provide input for the Program’s direction. The stakeholder group includes members of, local conservation districts, local farmers, neighbors to the METROGRO Farm, local county officials and other interested parties.
In 2004, the Metro District along with the stakeholder group made a decision to continue the Program for an additional seven years. Components of the newer Program include: groundwater quality and hydrology, streambed sediment quality, biosolids quality, crops, and air quality. Interpretive reports will be completed throughout the duration of the program and another investigative report is expected to be released in 2011.
Copies of all reports published from this program are available for purchase by contacting the USGS Information Services at Box 25286 Denver Federal Center, Denver, Colorado 80225, 1-888-ASK-USGS or at www.usgs.gov
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