Ross & Associates Environmental Consulting, Ltd.

Ross & Associates assisted the National Biosolids Partnership (NBP) with the design and implementation of an independent third party verification approach for its voluntary recognition program. The NBP voluntary program engages over 100 wastewater treatment agencies from across the country in the development of an environmental management system (EMS) for biosolids.

In developing the third party verification approach, Ross & Associates researched and analyzed existing third party verification programs, facilitated meetings, and provided analytic, research, and writing support to a core volunteer group, composed primarily of wastewater industry professionals. In support of the NBP objective to increase public acceptance of biosolids management practices and build credibility with local communities and other stakeholders, Ross & Associates also conducted interviews, held conference calls, and facilitated an Advisory Group comprised of representatives of a broad range of biosolids stakeholders, including national environmental organizations, agriculture, forestry, food processing, conservation organizations, tribes, public health, state and federal regulators, and local community organizations. The Advisory Group provided direction and input on the third party verification program recommendations.

Building on this work, Ross & Associates assisted with the establishment and implementation of the third party verification program, including development of written program materials and set up of governing bodies, such as the Advisory Committee and EMS Appeals Board. Ross & Associates also assisted with the recruitment, training and certification of third party EMS auditors.

For the past several years, Ross & Associates has supported NBP with making strategic updates to the program, based on real program experience, with a goal of increased participation and long-term program sustainability. This has required working with a wide variety of NBP stakeholders, including participating wastewater utilities, NBP third party auditors and training providers, state and federal regulators, water association staff members, farmers and contractors involved in biosolids land application programs, national environmental organizations, trade press and members of the NBP Steering Committee, Advisory Committee, and Appeals Board.