Case Study
Barham Farms — Johnston County, NC
In-ground anaerobic digester with covered lagoon system for a 4,000-head hog farm, producing biogas for electric power generation and reducing odor.
The Challenge
Problem
Julian Barham's 4,000-sow hog farm in Johnston County needed an effective waste management system that could handle the volume of waste while addressing odor concerns and providing energy value. Traditional open lagoon and spray field systems were under scrutiny from North Carolina regulators and the surrounding community. The farm needed a viable alternative that could treat waste while producing usable energy.
Our Approach
Solution
EFI installed an in-ground anaerobic digester measuring 265 feet by 265 feet and 20 feet deep — about twice as deep as a typical lagoon. A tough plastic cover stretches over the digester to capture biogas (primarily methane and CO2), which is piped to a generator producing electric power. The system has been operational since 1996, funded in part by the EPA AgStar Program to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Outcomes
Results & Metrics
Key Outcomes
- 4,000-sow operation fully covered with anaerobic digester
- Biogas fuels on-farm electric generator
- Saves approximately $1,500/month in power costs
- Odor reduction from covered digester system
- Greenhouse gas emissions significantly reduced
- Evaluated by NC State as viable lagoon alternative
“This is definitely not a money-making situation, but I think it will pay its way. It will keep you in the hog business. The generator saves us about $1,500 a month in power costs.”
Julian Barham, Owner, Barham Farms
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