Erath County is one of the largest milk producing areas in Texas. The county's 100,000 dairy cows generate more than 150,000 dry tons of manure annually. Due to elevated phosphorus concentrations in the Bosque River—largely attributed to Erath County's sizable and concentrated dairy population—the Brazos River Authority commissioned a study to identify regional manure management solutions. CDM performed manure quantity and processing assessments, siting analyses, cost comparisons, and a marketing assessment, and identified funding options. The study revealed that the lack of regulatory initiatives to develop sustainable manure management practices would result in a need for innovative financing strategies in order to implement manure management programs. Several financing options were explored for the county, including a milk stewardship program that offsets the manure processing costs.
CDM recommended a phased and diversified management approach based upon composting and other technologies. CDM's recommendations contributed to developing grant projects worth more than $7 million for the county and surrounding watersheds.
CLIENT: Brazos River Authority
LOCATION: Erath County, Texas