Worm farming has been used to reduce waste in many commercial applications in addition to the increasing popularity of home worm farming. Commercial use of worms for waste reduction requires a huge quantity of worms. I have seen some commercial worm farms that have several windrows each being hundreds of metres in length and 3 to 4 metres wide.
The treatment of raw sewerage using worm farming is in use in many parts of the world. As more and more local governing bodies become more realistic about respecting the environment, alternative treatment options are being sought - worm farming is an obvious winner in this alternative approach. It has been said that treating sewerage using worms is so good it can actually produce drinking quality water through the treatment process.
All worms typically used for worm farming are suitable for the treatment of sewerage - Reds, Blues and Tigers. Considering this is a large scale set up the process is relatively simple and straight forward.
The standard operation uses a boom to trickle raw sewerage over large worm beds. As with a home worm system the worms eat their way to the surface. More slurry as added and the process repeats.
The worm castings become the filter medium for the slurry as it builds up. The particles stick to the surface of the castings and the liquid filters through the castings and is collected.
Similar to a home worm farm, the castings left by the worms become a quality rich soil conditioner and fertiliser which can be bagged or sold in bulk to nurseries, garden centres or farmers.
The traditional treatment of sewerage requires several biological processes requiring much more effort compared to sewerage treated using vermiculture (worm farming) principles. The end result also has many added advantages through varied industries.
On a smaller scale but similar in principle to sewerage treatment using worms are waterless toilets. These work by directing human waste into a pit or holding vessel where waiting worms reduce it to castings for use on domestic gardens and council parks. Waterless toilets can be designed to include a water (urine) only section and a solid waste section. This can be useful if installed in public toilet or camping facilities where the ratio of liquid to solid waste is typically higher.
Bacteria is always present in these types of natural fertiliser so as a standard safety measure when handling the finished product it is recommended you wear gloves and a dust mask to reduce the intake of small particles as you breath. Always wash your hands before handling food after working with your worm farm or commercial operation regardless of the source of raw material.
Eric J. Smith writes about his interest in many areas of Environmental concern including the Health impact of Toxic Chemicals in our Community. As an experienced Horticulturist, Eric has a passion for Organic Gardening and Permaculture with an emphasis on the sustainable use of environmental systems. Becoming a representative for ONE Groups Certified Organic Miessence range of Skin, Body, Health, Oral and Home care products was a natural follow on from his interest in Organics and The Environment. Miessence Representative enquiries are welcome by visiting http://www.lifestyle-advantage.com/ or for product enquiries visit http://www.buy-organic-products.com/.
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