OUR APPROACH:

Cross-sector collaborative development of anaerobic digestion for biogas production and ecological restorationCarol L. Williams

Wisconsin Energy Institute, University of Wisconsin

BIOENERGY + ECOLOGICAL RESTORATION = BIOECONOMIC GROWTH

Together, We Can Make It Happen!

• Catalyze bioeconomic growthExpansion of grass-based bioenergy requires overcoming market inertia. Proven, here-now technology offers a pathway for creation of value-added products & services.

• Restore ecosystem servicesAgricultural grasslands are sources of biomass for feed, fiber and fuel, as well as soil and water protection. Expansion of grassland acres could expand these benefits. To expand grass agriculture there must be economic benefits that compare to row crop production.

Conservation grasslands provide soil and water quality enhancement, wildlife habitat, and hunting and recreation opportunities. To reliably provide these benefits, grasslands must be managed. Payments for ecosystem services and use of management by-products in supply chains could off-set management costs.

•Utilize excess farm-nutrientsWisconsin is a dairy leader but faces substantial challenges in farm nutrient management and subsequent impacts to water quality.

THE CHALLENGE:

• Form cross-sector consortium to design & deploy anaerobic digester using dairy manure, perennial grass crops & public land management residuals

Photo: Tul’s Dairy, Butler County

Photo: kewauneecares

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• Generate & distribute renewable CNG/LNG• Generate value-added co-products• Expand grassland on private lands• Reduce costs of public grasslands management• Replicate collaborative model & distribute to others

OUTCOMES:

IN PROGRESS:• Feasibility study• Design • Implementation plan

FUTURE:• Engage rural/ag stakeholders• Co-located experimental systems• Provide education & outreach• Evaluate performance of linked

landscape & digester system• Re-design adaptively

TO-DATE:• Commitment of partners• Support of University leadership