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Tackling the problems of pollution from animal manure while achieving energy independence were among the topics debated at the Manure to Energy Summit on Sept. 8, sponsored by Chesapeake Bay Commission, the Chesapeake Bay Foundation, the Maryland Technology Development Corporation, and Farm Pilot Project Coordination, Inc.
Turning manure into energy can provide a reliable, renewable energy source that can provide a new source of income to farmers and help to reduce nutrient pollution that end up in local waters and Chesapeake Bay. Unfortunately, there are significant obstacles to putting proven technology on the ground. This invitation-only event challenged its 130 participants from industry, academia, and government to both identify the obstacles and suggest solutions to encourage the successful deployment of manure to energy projects in the Chesapeake region.
Conference attendees heard from a variety of technology experts as well as farmers who have improved the economic and environmental sustainability of their operations by using these technologies. Steve Reinford of Mifflintown, PA, shared his experience of powering his entire 500-cow farm operation and his home with energy produced on-farm. Both large- and small-scale systems can help the region address pollution problems associated with the land application of excess manure. Reducing pollution from this source is a crucial step in achieving the Chesapeake Bay pollution diet.
Despite the availability of viable technologies, obstacles such as insufficient financial incentives, difficulties in connecting to the electricity grid, and new markets for valuable by-products, have prevented widespread adoption.
“These proven technologies must receive wider recognition and implementation if we are to achieve our mutual goals of clean water and a strong agricultural economy,” said Beth McGee, Chesapeake Bay Foundation senior scientist.
Funding for the conference was provided by the Keith Campbell Foundation for the Environment, The U.S. Department of Agriculture, and EPA’s Chesapeake Bay Program.
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