A dairy farm in California’s Central Valley demonstrated an 80% reduction in methane emissions using a dairy digester system. This initiative supports California’s state-wide climate goals and showcases the role of science-industry collaboration. The research was led by the University of California, Riverside, and highlights both the environmental benefits and operational challenges of implementing digester technology on dairy farms.
A dairy farm in California’s Central Valley has achieved a significant environmental milestone by cutting methane emissions by approximately 80% using a dairy digester, an initiative that aligns closely with the state’s climate goals.
The digester project was studied and validated by the University of California, Riverside (UCR), where climate scientist Francesca Hopkins led a year-long research effort. Digesters work by sealing manure ponds to capture methane gas—traditionally a major greenhouse gas source in dairy operations. The captured gas can then be processed into energy, reducing environmental impact and offering potential economic benefits for farmers.
Hopkins emphasized the importance of design and maintenance: “The digesters can leak, and they sometimes do. But when the system is built well and managed carefully, the emissions really drop.” The findings support California’s goal to reduce methane emissions by 40% below 2013 levels by 2030. Currently, more than 130 digester systems are active throughout the state.
While the technology is not without challenges—including permit complexities, high installation costs, and maintenance requirements—the Central Valley project serves as a powerful case study of how science and agriculture can collaborate to meet climate targets. Initial leaks in the system were resolved promptly, with cooperation between the farm’s operators and UCR scientists.
This success story demonstrates that while digesters are not a universal fix, they are among the most cost-effective and scalable solutions to dairy-related methane emissions in the United States. It highlights a viable path forward for other dairy producers looking to modernize operations and comply with tightening environmental regulations.
