Targeting Early Methanogenesis to Improve Environmental and Economic Sustainability in Dairy Production Systems

In the US, enteric methane from dairy cattle contributes approximately 43% of dairy farm greenhouse gas emissions, making it a major target for improving the environmental sustainability of dairy production. The proposed research evaluates a new compound, 4-((Pyridin-2-ylmethyl)amino)benzoic acid (PMA), which targets an upstream enzyme essential for methanogen energy production and survival. Interestingly, PMA may provide a more sustained inhibition relative to current mitigators while allowing energy redirection for improved nutrient utilization. The objective is to use an in vitro batch culture system to quantify methane and gaseous hydrogen production, feed digestibility, pH, and volatile fatty acid production with increasing PMA concentrations (0–1.5 µM). Data collected from the proposed research are in direct alignment with BIOAg priorities for sustainable agriculture. More specifically, the research aims to evaluate a new tool to enhance environmental and economic sustainability, supporting Washington’s third-largest agricultural commodity and the rural communities that depend on it.