Dairy Digester - Whatcom County
One Lynden dairy farmer is taking a chance on a new type of renewable energy, proving that not even waste should go to waste. The manure here is heated and broken down by bacteria and the resulting methane gas is collected and used to generate electricity. Puget Sound Energy purchases the energy for electricity as part of our Green Power Program. Andgar, a Ferndale construction company, built the $1.2 million digester, which began supplying energy in November. The solids, or 
fiber, can be sold as compost and bedding soil and the liquid byproduct, rich with phosphorous and nitrogen can be used for fertilizer. In addition, the process cuts down on greenhouse gas emissions, protects water quality and reduces odor.
Three farms contribute manure from 1,000 cows. A pipeline brings manure in from Vander Haak's other dairy farm about two miles away, and DeeBee Dairy brings in manure by truck. At full capacity, the digester can handle manure from 1,500 cows, creating enough electricity to power 180 homes.
Watch this video to learn more about the Lynden digester.
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