Flagstaff explores biochar project and solids reduction with Shintzy dehumidifier

The Flagstaff City Council Budget Retreat on April 25, 2025, focused on innovative waste management strategies aimed at improving the efficiency of the city's wastewater treatment system. Key discussions revolved around the implementation of new technologies to handle biosolids more effectively, thereby reducing the burden on the Wildcat Hill treatment plant.

Council members explored the potential of the Shinseid dehumidifier, which could help extract solids from wastewater before they are treated again, enhancing overall system efficiency. This approach aims to optimize the treatment process by allowing the plant to focus on liquid capacity rather than solids.

Another significant topic was the biochar project, supported by Senator Gallego, which could utilize dried biosolids as feedstock. This initiative not only aims to reduce waste but also contributes to carbon sequestration efforts. The council discussed the possibility of combining dried biosolids with organic materials from forest health projects, such as biomass from tree maintenance, to create a valuable biochar product.

The meeting also highlighted a successful field trip to a forest products company in Eager, Arizona, where innovative practices were observed. The company uses bark from trees to produce biochar, which generates heat that can be reused in their operations, reducing reliance on natural gas. This model could inspire similar practices in Flagstaff, potentially integrating heat recovery systems into local biosolid treatment processes.

Overall, the discussions underscored the city's commitment to sustainable waste management and forest health, with plans to further explore these technologies and their applications in Flagstaff's wastewater treatment strategy. The council's next steps will involve assessing the feasibility of these initiatives and their potential impact on the community and environment.