Although dairy farmers have always worked hard using conventional conservation methods as simple as collecting rain water, there have also been several advances in environmentally conscious technology.

“Manure is stored in our lagoon, where bacteria and microorganisms break down the manure into nutrient ‘wastewater’ which is then spread on our fields as a natural fertilizer,” said Hastings. “We consistently test our storage lagoon and soil to help ensure optimum absorption into the field to prevent any run-off.”

Anaerobic digesters are being added to farms around the nation to help control waste. Bridgewater Dairy LLC, located in Montpelier, Ohio, is one of the first farms in Ohio to add this efficient technology.

“The anaerobic digester separates fiber and methane from manure and then converts the methane into electricity,” said Leon Weaver, owner of Bridgewater Dairy LLC. “This reduces our methane emissions and helps our farm become more self-sustainable.”

“With the continual use of traditional conservation methods and the on-going advances in environmental conscious technology,” said Hastings.  “You can be sure the dairy farmer has always and will always continue to help conserve our earth.”