Case Study
Gallo Farms — Atwater, CA
Covered lagoon biogas system for Gallo Farms in Atwater, California, treating high-strength dairy and cheese processing wastewater.
The Challenge
Problem
Gallo Farms' combined dairy and cheese production operation in Atwater generated extremely high-strength organic wastewater from both milking operations and cheese manufacturing. The facility faced Central Valley Air Quality Management District regulations requiring methane capture and needed a system that could handle the variable loading from seasonal cheese production cycles.
Our Approach
Solution
EFI designed and installed a covered lagoon biogas system engineered for the high BOD loads from combined dairy and cheese processing wastewater. The system captures methane for beneficial use while providing primary wastewater treatment. The cover design accommodates the wide range of organic loading rates that vary with cheese production schedules.
Outcomes
Results & Metrics
Key Outcomes
- Biogas captured from dairy and cheese wastewater
- Central Valley air quality compliance achieved
- High-strength wastewater treatment
- Variable loading capacity for cheese production cycles
- Methane emissions significantly reduced
- Odor complaints eliminated
“Between the dairy and cheese operations, our wastewater is some of the most challenging in the valley. EFI's system handles the full range of loading conditions without missing a beat.”
Plant Engineer, Gallo Farms
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