Biogas Development

WMSWCD is exploring renewable energy options in the Metro area that hopefully will serve the needs of both rural property owners, particularly forest and agricultural lands, as well as urban residents who want to recycle food waste and yard debris. Emerging technology, state & federal grant programs plus support for local jobs & reduction in metro area household/commercial waste hauled long distances for disposal are all powerful incentives. The District Board has authorized development of a feasibility study with local public and private partners to address issues of community need & support, waste stream feed stock -- options include local agriculture by-product, manure, food waste in addition to carbon /woody materials, ownership & management, and financing. European countries have two decades of experience with community-operated biogas facilities that produce electricity from anaerobic biogas methane, heat and compost-like material with many uses. The goal is to work in partnership with local & state agencies and the private sector on behalf of District constituents.