Use of contaminated dredged sludge as a substratum for forest growth - case study

Abstract

Preliminary research was done to assess the suitability of dredged sludge as a growing medium. On an experimental sludge site, consolidated and aged during 3 years, physical, chemical and biological environmental parameters were analysed. Cuttings of poplar clones were used to evaluate growing response, in comparison with identical clones on the nursery site. This study, conducted in order to attempt the potentiality of afforestation, affirms its intention. Afforestation seems to be possible. As a consequence, relatively high amounts of heavy metals will be introduced into the forest ecosystem.