Key Takeaways
- A first-of-its-kind U.S. field trial is testing Class A biosolids fertilizer for industrial hemp grain and fiber production.
- Early observations show taller plants and thicker stalks compared to conventional urea fertilizer.
- The study measures yield, soil carbon sequestration, PFAS uptake, and remediation potential.
- Partners include the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, MWRD, and Flura Inc.
- Replication in 2026 will support publication and national guidance on sustainable nutrient management.
Biosolids Fertilizer Takes Center Stage in Nationwide Hemp Research Effort
A unique field trial led by the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign is examining how biosolids fertilizer can support hemp cultivation for fiber and grain. Conducted in partnership with The Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago (MWRD) and Flura Inc., the research evaluates the agricultural and environmental performance of EPA-approved Class A biosolids in real-world field conditions.
The program, formally titled Evaluating Environmental Benefits of Growing Hemp with Biosolids, is designed to understand how nutrient-rich biosolids can influence crop performance, soil health, and sustainability outcomes across key indicators, including carbon sequestration and PFAS absorption.
Early Field Observations Show Strong Hemp Performance
Initial visual assessments from the Champaign-Urbana plots indicate that hemp grown with biosolids appears taller and has thicker stalks than crops grown with standard urea fertilizer. The project completed its first full harvest and analysis in November 2025, with a second year of replication planned for 2026.
“This trial is being led by Dr. D.K. Lee, a crop science researcher with more than 25 years of experience conducting field studies for universities, the Department of Energy, and commercial growers,” said Jeffrey Yarosz, Founder of Flura. “His leadership ensures scientific rigor, transparency, and the kind of independent oversight needed to set a national standard.”
Study Methodology and Research Focus
Trial Design
- Location: University of Illinois crop science research fields
- Plot Size: Approximately 1/8 acre
- Inputs: Class A biosolids vs. urea fertilizer
- Seed: Provided by Flura
- Oversight: Independent research supervision
Metrics Measured
- Fertilizer efficacy and yield comparisons
- Soil carbon sequestration via root biomass
- PFAS absorption across plant tissues
- Overall hemp remediation potential
“Even though hemp does not require heavy inputs of fertilizers compared to other row crops, hemp still needs nutrients depending on the end products, whether fiber, grain, or both, and sustainable nutrient management is essential for both yield and environmental health,” said Dr. Lee. “Our study is examining how biosolids can provide the nutrients needed to support robust fiber and grain production while improving soil health over time.”
The team notes that hemp’s deep root system and rapid growth could support improved soil structure, erosion reduction, and enhanced water retention.
Public–Private Collaboration on Circular Agriculture
MWRD is supplying Class A biosolids and financial support, while Flura provides seed and the university oversees application and research protocols. The partnership aims to demonstrate how biosolids can fit into regenerative agriculture frameworks.
“By partnering on this trial, we're exploring innovative ways to use Class A biosolids to support sustainable agriculture,” said Yarosz. “The goal is to understand how these nutrient-rich, EPA-approved materials can enhance soil health, improve crop productivity, and provide a model for environmentally responsible farming practices that other regions across the U.S. can follow.”
He added: “By converting biosolids into high-quality, EPA-approved fertilizer and combining it with our hemp seed, we're helping farmers increase yields, build healthier soils, and demonstrate a scalable circular economy model.”
Next Steps and Publication Timeline
Sample processing and analysis will conclude in early 2026, with a second trial year planned to validate results. Findings from both years will inform peer-reviewed publications, contributing to national guidance on biosolids fertilizer use and sustainable nutrient management.
The trial is part of broader efforts exploring how biosolids can reduce reliance on synthetic fertilizers, support regenerative agriculture, and improve long-term soil resilience.
