Capture methane emissions during manure storage to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the waste management system.
Overview
Capturing emissions from manure storage ponds is a proven and widely recognized strategy for significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Additionally, implementing this practice not only fosters environmental sustainability but also presents an opportunity for dairies to generate valuable carbon credits.
Reference: NRCS Practice Standard: Anaerobic Digester (366)
Environmental Impact
- Reduced GHG emissions
- Improved air quality
Greenhouse Gas Reduction
Estimated Cost
Scenario Unit: Animal Unit
Scenario Typical Size: 1,000 animal units
Total Cost/Unit: $484.25/animal unit
Reference: NRCS Practice Standard and Scenario: CPS 366 Anaerobic Digester Scenario #7 – Covered Lagoon/Holding Pond: https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/sites/default/files/2024-11/fy25-wa-scenarios.pdf, p. 404.
*Note: The cost of covering the storage pond and purchasing a candlestick flare is calculated by multiplying the number of mature cows by a 1.4 animal unit factor and that animal unit number is then multiplied by the unit cost shown in the associated NRCS Payment Schedule.
Financial Considerations
Carbon Credit Potential: Cap and flare systems can qualify for carbon credits, as it directly mitigates emissions by burning off the methane that is emitted during the anaerobic decomposition of organic material in manure.
Timeline
Long
Dependency / Prerequisite
Prerequisites:
- To install a cover and flare system, a feasibility study should be conducted, a design and plan must be developed, funding must be secured, necessary permits must be obtained, and current facilities must be assessed for modifications.
- Before implementing a cap and flare system, the farm should remove all accumulated solids in the existing holding pond to ensure that the pond can efficiently manage manure and that the cap and flare system can function effectively in controlling emissions and optimizing performance.