Cooperative Approaches for Implementation of Dairy Manure Digesters

Anaerobic digestion of dairy manure produces biogas that can be captured and used for fuel while offering environmental benefits. Dairy farmer use of anaerobic digesters is not widespread due to various challenges, including high costs and inadequate return. A cooperative approach could address the challenges through improved negotiating strength; technical assistance for digester design, installation, and operation; management and marketing services; and/or financial guidance and assistance. Cooperative efforts may allow milk producers to remain focused on milk production while lowering costs and/or increasing returns from energy and byproduct sales