Animal Waste Technology Grant Awarded to South Mountain Creamery

Department of Agriculture Says Money Will Enhance Frederick Farm’s Manure Management System

 ANNAPOLIS – The Maryland Department of Agriculture has awarded a $505,744 Animal Waste Technology Grant to South Mountain Creamery in Frederick County. This grant will enhance the farm’s manure management system for its 500 dairy cows. The award is part of the state’s ongoing commitment to managing animal manure, protecting natural resources, and pursuing clean, renewable energy sources.

“This project received a unanimous recommendation from members of the Animal Waste Technical Evaluation Committee and Animal Waste Advisory Committee,” said Maryland Agriculture Secretary Kevin Atticks. “Supporting innovative technologies that help farmers manage manure in new and sustainable ways is a top priority for the Moore-Miller Administration.”

South Mountain Creamery will utilize the grant funds to install two projects. The first project will equip the farm’s liquid manure lagoon with a protective cover and flare system. This will capture and safely burn off greenhouse gas emissions. The second project involves installing an advanced manure separation system to prevent solids and sand from entering the lagoon. These particles will be collected, treated, and packaged for sale off-farm. This will generate additional farm revenue while also addressing nutrient management concerns. In addition to the Animal Waste Technology Grant, South Mountain Creamery will receive a match of approximately $200,000 from the Conservation Innovation Fund and $350,000 from Nutrient Control Systems for additional treatment of the separated solids.