#United States #University of Illinois #Sustainable Fertilizer #Champaign-Urbana #Class A Biosolids

Exploring Sustainable Fertilizer Through Hemp-Biosolids Trial

In a pioneering study underway at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, researchers are investigating the use of Class A biosolids as an innovative fertilizer for industrial hemp production. Led by Dr. D.K. Lee, this research holds potential for sustainable agriculture, particularly in supporting the growth of hemp for its grain and fiber.

This field trial is the first of its kind in the United States and is a collaboration between the university, The Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago (MWRD), and Flura, Inc. The initiative, dubbed "Evaluating Environmental Benefits of Growing Hemp with Biosolids," aims to understand how this EPA-approved biosolid fertilizer can enhance crop yields while promoting ecological sustainability.

Objectives and Benefits
The ongoing research includes an assessment of various factors such as fiber yield, soil health enhancement, and environmental impact reduction. The team is measuring outcomes across multiple categories, including crop performance metrics, soil carbon sequestration, and the absorption of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in plant tissues. Preliminary observations have indicated that hemp plants grown with biosolids are achieving greater heights and thicker stalks compared to those fertilized with conventional urea fertilizer.

According to Jeffrey Yarosz, Founder of Flura, Dr. Lee's extensive experience in conducting field studies guarantees the rigor and reliability of the research, establishing a foundation for national best practices in sustainable farming.

Trial Specifics and Methodology
The trial is taking place on approximately one-eighth acre plots within the university's crop science research fields. The methodology incorporates proprietary hemp seed developed by Flura, with a comparative analysis against standard urea fertilizer to evaluate the efficacy of biosollid fertilizers. This research is under independent oversight to ensure transparency and accuracy.

The primary focus areas include:

• - Efficacy of biosolid fertilizers compared to conventional inputs
• - Carbon sequestration capabilities via root biomass analysis
• - Monitoring PFAS absorption across various plant tissues
• - The overall remediation potential of hemp

Dr. Lee emphasizes the importance of sustainable nutrient management in hemp cultivation, asserting that even though hemp generally requires fewer fertilizers than other crops, the nutrient demand varies depending on targeted outcomes—be it for fiber or grain. The study aims to highlight how biosolids can fulfill these nutrient needs while improving long-term soil health.

Potential Impact on Farming Practices
This research is particularly significant given the fast growth and deep-rooted structure of hemp, which can improve soil health, water retention, and limit erosion and chemical runoff. The long-term goal is to quantify these benefits with real-world field data, offering a novel approach for farmers to cultivate hemp sustainably and economically.

The trial has been funded and supported by MWRD, who supplied the Class A biosolids, while Flura contributed the hemp seed. This collaboration blends public utility advancements with private sector innovation and academic research, showcasing a shift towards responsible agricultural practices that utilize nutrient-rich biosolids effectively.

Flura is keen to demonstrate how such innovative nutrient solutions can propel regenerative agriculture. By converting biosolids into high-quality fertilizer and combining it with strategically developed hemp seed, the aim is to help farmers increase crop yields and foster healthier soils.

As the trial progresses, analysis is expected to be completed in early 2026, leading to the replication of the study to validate findings and prepare results for publication in scientific circles. This initiative forms part of a larger effort to enhance sustainable nutrient management strategies across various crops, ultimately aiming to reduce dependence on synthetic fertilizers and improve agricultural resilience.

Conclusion
The Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago (MWRD) plays a crucial role, not just in this trial but in advocating for sustainable water management practices across Cook County. Dr. D.K. Lee's leadership, alongside his extensive background in sustainable farming disciplines, positions this research as a cornerstone for future agricultural innovation in the U.S. Through collaboration and scientific exploration, this unique hemp-biosolid trial promises to contribute significantly to the advancement of environmentally conscious farming methods.

For more information, visit Flura's website or contact the media representative Teresa Alagna at 312-498-9593.