By Andi Anderson
Researchers at Michigan State University (MSU) are spearheading efforts to assist small meat processing facilities in managing their wastewater more effectively.
These low-volume meat processors are crucial to the food supply chain in many communities, but they face significant challenges in handling the wastewater generated by their operations. To address this, the Michigan Alliance for Animal Agriculture has funded two projects led by MSU researchers.
Jeannine Schweihofer, associate director of MSU Extension’s Agriculture and Agribusiness Institute, highlighted the importance of these efforts, noting that many small processors rely on decentralized wastewater treatment systems due to high costs and limited access to centralized options.
These systems often include pretreatment in septic tanks, followed by biological treatments in lagoons, and finally, land application where the soil further treats the wastewater.
The first project, published in early 2024, involved selecting six Michigan meat processing facilities to analyze their wastewater management practices.
Researchers collected samples over a year to understand the composition of the wastewater, focusing on elements like nitrogen, ammonia, and phosphorus. They discovered that accurate sampling must be done close to the time of discharge to reflect true wastewater conditions.
To meet newer environmental standards, the researchers suggest improvements such as using multiple lagoons for extended pretreatment, adding aeration or filtration systems, and ensuring that soil used for land application can handle the wastewater volume.
The second ongoing project addresses the specific needs of different processing facilities. Researchers are evaluating various treatment and discharge methods to develop a decision-support tool that will help processors choose the best option for their operations. The project aims to find economically viable solutions that also enhance sustainability.
Dan Swartzendruber, president of the Michigan Meat Association, expressed his support for these research efforts, emphasizing the need for affordable solutions that won’t burden small processors with excessive costs.
He looks forward to the continued results and hopes they will provide new, effective wastewater management options for small meat processing businesses.
Through these projects, MSU researchers are working to ensure that small meat processors can manage their wastewater in a way that is both cost-effective and environmentally responsible, helping to sustain their operations and protect Michigan’s natural resources.
Photo Credit: michigan-state-university-msu
Categories: Michigan, Education