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Workshops/ConferencesNorthwest Dairy Digester WorkshopWorkshop and DeRuyter Dairy Tour: November 18, 2008 Increasing desire for renewable energy and greater environmental protection, and the growth of the livestock industry, have created the atmosphere for the viability and growth of anaerobic digester systems in the Northwest. Management of odors, water quality, air emissions, and nutrients are major issues facing dairy farmers and the citizens in the region. However, anaerobic digester systems have proven to be one solution to many of these issues, as well as a viable energy source. These technologies not only address many of the environmental concerns surrounding manure management, but also create opportunities for revenue from energy generation, nutrient value, fiber recovery, and carbon credits. This workshop, hosted by AgSTAR, Washington State Department of Agriculture, and WSU Center for Sustaining Agriculture & Natural Resources, will provide a broad overview of anaerobic digestion of livestock manure and other related issues. Workshop speakers include representatives from U.S. Department of Agriculture, EPA, Washington State University along with other experts in anaerobic digester technologies, such as project developers. After the workshop, attendees are invited to visit the George DeRuyter and Sons Dairy in nearby Outlook, Washington. The dairy is home to approximately 4,500 cows and 1,000 heifers housed in two farm complexes. Its anaerobic digester project, operational since 2006, is a two-stage mixed-plug flow system. The project is generating electricity and has a nameplate capacity of 1.2 megawatts. Draft Agenda (PDF, 1 pp., 54 KB) Logistical Fact Sheet (PDF, 1 pp., 58 KB) The workshop is free of charge, but there is an optional $10 fee for those wishing to enjoy the lunch buffet. Online registration closes at noon (PST) on November 13, 2008. Limited on-site registration may be available the day of the event, but space is not guaranteed. If you have any questions about the program, please e-mail agstar@erg.com or leave a message with our contractor, ERG conference registration services at 781.674.7374.
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