Vadose zone monitoring and modeling of potential nitrate migration from biosolids application

Developed and implemented a system of vadose zone monitoring approved by the NC Division of Water Quality to evaluate the potential migration of nitrate below the root zone following the permitted resumption of biosolids to agricultural fields after a 12 year non-application period.  Instrumented three representative fields using Decagon G3 Drain Gages™ to collect deep percolation for NO3 analyses at depths of approximately 2 feet and 8 feet, supplemented by matric potential and moisture content monitoring to detect downward moisture movement.  In the interval between the Drain Gages.  Water collected in the drain gages, matric potential and moisture content are recorded on an hourly basis using field data loggers. 
Client: City of Raleigh Public Utilities Department.