Farm Manure to Energy Initiative.

The "Manure-to-Energy Initiative" was established to recycle poultry litter in nutrient surplus watersheds into heat as well as a nutrient dense materials to aid in shipping costs; which allows for application in nutrient deficient watersheds. Overall, this project will demonstrate and evaluate the technical, environmental, and financial feasibility of manure-to-energy technologies to reduce pollution from land-applied manure in phosphorus “hotspots” in the Chesapeake Bay region. Demonstration will occur by installing four demonstration projects on commercial poultry farms. We researched and demonstrated new revenue streams from excess manure and showed that ash co-products can be marketed to crop growers as an alternative to commercial fertilizer. The group also developed a website clearinghouse of resources and information (www.extension.org/pages/68455) and will provide training for farmers and technical service providers regarding energy technologies. To assist with implementation, the initiative will investigate financing options and provide a summary of financing options for installing farm-scale systems including innovative financing approaches. With project completion, we will have new techniques to ensure that poultry growers remain competitive and environmentally sustainable in the Mid-Atlantic region.