How Idaho Farmers Profit from Dairy Waste

Aug 12, 2025
By Farms.com

Groundbreaking research transforms dairy manure into valuable products like fertilizers and bioplastics

In southern Idaho’s dairy country, managing cow manure has been a significant challenge, but a USDA-backed initiative is turning this problem into opportunity. The Idaho Sustainable Agriculture Initiative for Dairy (ISAID) has spent five years developing innovative systems to transform manure into valuable bioproducts. The research, funded by a $10 million grant, aims to reduce environmental concerns while providing new revenue streams for dairy farmers.

One of the most promising breakthroughs is the creation of “enriched biochar.” By extracting nitrogen and phosphorus from manure wastewater, researchers infuse these nutrients into biochar, which is used as a slow-release fertilizer for crops. In greenhouse trials, biochar-treated crops showed impressive growth compared to those using traditional fertilizers. This method not only reduces fertilizer costs but also minimizes runoff, benefiting both farmers and the environment.

ISAID is also working on “hydrochar,” a phosphorus-rich soil amendment produced by heating manure under pressure. This product locks in phosphorus, reducing the risk of runoff into local water bodies, which can cause algae blooms. Additionally, the team is exploring the conversion of manure into biodegradable plastics, a potential game-changer for both the dairy industry and the environment.

Water treatment is another key focus, with the development of the “Clean Water Machine,” a system designed to purify manure-laden wastewater for crop irrigation. This technology could help farms recycle up to 80% of their water, reducing costs and protecting local waterways.

The combination of these technologies creates a circular dairy bioeconomy, where manure and wastewater are fully utilized to create value-added products. With ongoing trials and economic assessments, farmers in Idaho are eager to adopt these solutions, with the potential for a substantial shift in how dairy waste is managed. As dairy owner Hank DeVries puts it, “It’s like turning waste into gold.”

Photo Credit: gettyimages-ahavelaar

Video: Five Confirmed New World Screwworm Cases Raise Alarm for Livestock and Pet Owners

Pat Hoffmann, Swine Technical Consultant at Elanco Animal Health tells us about the impact of New World Screwworm. The emergence of New World screwworm in the U.S. creates a threat for veterinarians, livestock producers and pet owners that has not been seen north of the Florida Keys since the fly was eradicated from the United States more than 50 years ago. New World screwworm (Cochliomyia hominivorax) larvae feed on living tissue and can affect a wide range of warm-blooded animals, including livestock, companion animals, wildlife, and even humans.
“New World screwworm could have a devastating impact on animal health, welfare, and producer livelihoods,” said Jeff Simmons, President and CEO, Elanco Animal Health. “We want to thank the FDA, EPA and USDA, for all their work to prepare for this threat. We’re committed to supporting our customers during this challenging time by delivering innovation, scientific expertise, and available resources to help treat New World screwworm and support the health and well-being of animals.”
Elanco is working alongside the U.S. animal health industry to help them fight against this parasite, offering a portfolio of options for pets and livestock that can help treat New World screwworm larvae infestations.