Reclaimed Resources

A person in a blue glove is kneeling and holding a handful of gravel or soil, inspecting it closely.

Biosolids

The wastewater treatment process leaves a dry, earthy-smelling material called biosolids that makes a high-quality soil amendment. 

Class A Quality

The biosolids generated by Goleta Sanitary District are rated Class A by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, making them a quality soil amendment. To maintain the Class A rating, the District processes the biosolids carefully and tests every batch for a wide range of contaminants.

 

The image features a product called "Gardener's Hero" soil amendment, with a logo from Goleta Sanitary District and floral decorations.

Biosolids Are Currently Unavailable

Biosolids are a key ingredient in many commercial soil amendments. When available, biosolids are offered to the public on a first-come, first-served basis. 

Please note the following:

  • This material is not to be used as topsoil; and it must be turned into your soil 
  • It is not recommended for use with root vegetables
  • Please bring your own small garbage bags or containers for transport. A shovel is available for your convenience. We do not have any prepackaged amendment at this time.
  • Pickup days and hours are Monday through Thursday, 8 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. , and Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
  • Please check in at the administrative office during each visit

Nutrient Components of Goleta Sanitary District Biosolids

Biosolids-Annual-Report-2018.pdf2019 Biosolids Annual Report.pdf2017 Biosolids Annual Report.pdf2016 Biosolids Annual Report.pdf2015 Biosolids Annual Report.pdf

Digester Gas

The District’s solids treatment anaerobic digesters generate digester gas in the process of decomposing organic materials. This gas is composed of about 60% methane. It is highly flammable and has a high heat energy value. The gas is collected and used to heat the digesters used in the solids treatment process, as well as to heat on-site buildings, thereby significantly reducing the District’s consumption of natural gas. The District also has a cogeneration unit to convert the methane gas to electricity for use in the plant. As of 2026, the District is nearing completion of Phase 1 of the Biosolids and Energy Strategic Plan (BESP), which added a new digester and a new cogeneration unit. 

Reclaimed/Recycled Water Benefits Everyone

Goleta Sanitary District produces high quality, secondary-treated water and discharges about two-thirds of it safely to the ocean. By adding a third stage of treatment, a portion of the secondary-treated water is further treated and becomes recycled water. The water is then distributed by the Goleta Water District for use on large landscapes such as golf courses, medians, parks, and schools. Recycled water is also used to flush toilets in some of the newer larger buildings in Goleta. This recycled water saves up to 300 million gallons of potable (drinkable) water each year for residents of the Goleta Valley. Residents also benefit from having a drought-proof, reliable source of recycked water.

Recycled Water is Safe

Recycled water has been used safely in California for decades. Its use is carefully monitored by local, state, and federal regulators. The District's sophisticated and proven treatment processes, along with our specially designed and built recycled water pipeline, deliver recycled water safely and efficiently under stringent user guidelines.