Abstract: A water treatment system and method reduces the pH level of a waste stream from an unacceptably high level with maximum efficiency and safety, and minimum costs and labor. The system includes a pH control system that detects a pH level of the waste stream. An acid discharge unit including a source of acid and an acid feeding mechanism is activated and deactivated by the pH control system according to the pH level of the waste stream. A housing contains the acid discharge unit and at least part of the pH control system. The acid feeding mechanism may feed dry acid directly to the waste stream or premix the dry acid with water to form a wet acidic solution that is fed into the waste stream. A mixing tank may be provided downstream of the housing to serve as an area for mixing acidic materials from the acid discharge unit with the waste stream prior to discharge from the plant.

Abstract: A biodegradable mat promotes growth and health of vegetation. The mat includes a plurality of biodegradable fibers weaved into a mat sized and shaped for placement adjacent vegetation. At least one of a fertilizer and an herbicide are broadcast spread on the mat. A bittering agent is adhered to the mat, which also serves to adhere the fertilizer and/or herbicide to the mat. The resulting construction retains moisture, releases fertilizer, blocks soils from weed seeds, kills emergent weeds below the mat, and resists foraging by deer and rodents. The mat is easy to transport and handle, and installation requires considerably less labor than conventional mulch.

Abstract: A biodegradable log includes a strip of absorbent material embedded therein and at least one wick extending from the strip outside of the log. The wick draws moisture into the biodegradable log in order to maintain an aqueous environment for embedded vegetation. Holes may be provided at least partially through the log diameter and along the log length to facilitate log placement and installation.

Abstract: A tree shelter includes two semi-cylindrical cages having complementary coupling devices that secure the cages to each other into a cylindrical configuration. The cages are formed of a biodegradable material. Additives may be included in the material for added functionality, including a bittering agent, a deer repellant and/or a fertilizer. The tree shelter also may include a bird guard that prevents birds from entering the shelter. The shelter is easily and inexpensively manufactured and is easy to install in the field.

Abstract: A water treatment system and method reduce the pH level of a waste stream from an unacceptably high level with maximum efficiency and safety, and minimum costs and labor. The system includes a pH control system that detects a pH level of the waste stream. An acid discharge unit including a source of acid and an acid feeding mechanism is activated and deactivated by the pH control system according to the pH level of the waste stream. A housing contains the acid discharge unit and at least part of the pH control system. The acid feeding mechanism may feed dry acid directly to the waste stream or premix the dry acid with water to form a wet acidic solution that is fed into the waste stream. A mixing tank may be provided downstream of the housing to serve as an area for mixing acidic materials from the acid discharge unit with the waste stream prior to discharge from the plant.