NEWS HIGHLIGHT
Nutrient removal tech on display at Cal Poly
Technology that may help dairy producers meet waste discharge
requirements (WDR) related to excess nutrients in lagoon water applied to
cropland will be on display at the Cal Poly Dairy Symposium Oct. 15-16.
September 13, 2010, San
Luis Obispo, CA – Technology that may help dairy producers meet waste discharge
requirements (WDR) related to excess nutrients in lagoon water applied to
cropland will be on display at the Cal Poly Dairy Symposium Oct. 15-16.
Experience has shown that
a significant percentage of California dairies have excess nutrients in
relation to their available cropland for surface application of lagoon water
and manure solids. Water Board regulations state that all dairies must meet a
1.4-1.65 times the crop’s nutrient demand requirement by 2012. Facilities
exceeding this limit will be required to increase their cropland distribution
base, export nutrients off farm and/or decrease the facility’s herd size.
The Cal Poly Dairy Science
department has been exploring alternatives for producers to remain in
compliance with these regulations. The university dairy constructed a simple,
energy efficient wastewater treatment technology, called a Reciprocating
Biofilter (ReCip®). It has proven effective in removing up to 95 percent of
total ammonia nitrogen in dairy lagoon water. Producers with a surplus of
nutrients who are unable to acquire additional land for nutrient dispersal or
who cannot export nutrients off-farm can contact Cal Poly to schedule a tour or
to acquire additional information about ReCip®.
Tours will be given during
the Cal Poly Dairy Symposium Oct. 15-16. To schedule an appointment, contact
Professor Tryg Lundquist at (805) 756-7275.
