While recent changes in policy and markets have added uncertainty to the economics of digesters, the technology remains a valuable option for dairies looking to improve sustainability, prepare for a carbon-conscious future and manage manure more effectively.

There are several sustainability programs available for producers to adapt on their farms to receive carbon credits or some other incentive payment in return.

Whether your objective is sustainability, a new revenue source or odor control, interest in and development of dairy anaerobic digester projects has swelled over the past few years. The upward trend is only expected to increase as dairies seek manure solutions to meet a changing marketplace.

There’s a lot of buzz around renewable natural gas (RNG) as a means for dairy farmers to diversify revenue while improving their carbon footprints. For many operators, it can be a particularly attractive option, especially given the current market and economic conditions.

Anaerobic digestion is seeing increased interest and implementation on many farms throughout the U.S. But what is anaerobic digestion? What do the economic opportunities look like? And, how would it fit on your farm?