How does the anaerobic digestion process work?
In the controlled anaerobic digestion process, bacteria break down organic matter (manure is a great source) in an oxygen-free environment. Unlike an open lagoon or a manure storage tank, it is a closed system, so methane is captured and is, therefore, a usable fuel. The system also reduces odorous gases or vapors. The system is not magic and the manure is not destroyed. The outflow from an anaerobic digester contains all of the nutrients and water that went into the digester. Only energy has been extracted. Who may be most interested in anaerobic digesters? • Dairy or swine producers who are expanding or building new facilities. • Dairy or swine producers who have existing or potential odor problems as people build new homes close to their existing facilities. • Dairy or swine producers who may be limited in the land where they can spread manure and/or want to market the manure commercially. • Dairy producers who want to reduce their dependence on energy from off farm sources. What ty
