Do Digesters Affect the Nutrient Content of Manure?

When incentives are available for renewable energy and/or practices that reduce carbon emissions, livestock and poultry producers tend to show more interest in anaerobic digesters.  These producers may also be looking to better manage manure nutrients on the farm.  Common objectives are to reduce nutrient content where an imbalance exists – typically an excess of phosphorus (P) – and to optimize the fertilizer value, especially the amount of nitrogen (N) that is readily available for plant use.  Perhaps the most appropriate answer to whether digesters affect the nutrient content of manure is “Generally no, but in some ways yes.”  Here’s why.

Read article