This study investigates agricultural land in Maramureș County, Romania, located near an extensive mining site with a history of heavy metal contamination. The polluted area lies adjacent to the Cavnic River, downstream from the Plopiș-Răchițele tailings pond. Local farmers use various fertilization practices, including the application of sediments extracted from the Cavnic River bed and, occasionally, nutrient-rich sludge from municipal wastewater treatment plants. While these materials are valued for their essential nutrient content (NPK), their use may worsen existing soil pollution.
The research assesses contamination levels, considering both the legacy of mining activities and current agricultural practices. The findings indicate that, although sewage sludge is rich in nutrients, it does not currently represent a viable solution for improving soil quality in this area due to the persistent heavy metal contamination from past mining operations.
The study recommends the implementation of local phytoremediation strategies and more accessible government policies focused on the remediation of former mining sites and environmental safety. These should be pursued in parallel with a revised local land-use strategy aimed at reducing the risks associated with pollutant exposure.