Mercer Vu Farms, a large dairy operation in Mercersburg, Pennsylvania, faced a significant challenge: managing solid waste from its 1,650 cows. The farm needed a solution that complied with environmental regulations while being cost-effective and efficient. Their search led them to the Composting Success of Brown Bear Corporation and the PA35 Compost Aerator.
Initial Challenges
Before implementing the PA35, Mercer Vu Farms struggled with manure piles accumulating throughout the facility. The high moisture content of the waste made it ineffective for use. Recognizing the need for a sustainable solution, they began developing a composting site to meet Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) and Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) regulations.
Support from Brown Bear Corporation
Brown Bear Corporation provided essential consultation and support in constructing and operating the composting facility. The PA35 significantly improved the farm’s composting process. Rick Hissong, a third-generation farmer at Mercer Vu, noted that the equipment allowed them to handle larger volumes of manure and improve drying conditions. They successfully reduced moisture content from around 83-84% to 65-70%.
Benefits of Composting
The benefits of composting extend beyond waste management:
- Cost Savings: Composting reduces the need to purchase bedding materials and other byproducts.
- Nutrient-Rich Fertilizer: The composted material can be used as fertilizer for crops or sold for landscaping and gardening.
- Nitrogen Stabilization: The PA35 stabilizes nitrogen in manure solids, converting it into a stable form suitable for crops with high nitrogen demands. This practice protects the environment and demonstrates Mercer Vu Farms’ commitment to sustainability.
Compatibility, Customer Service and Composting Success
Furthermore, the PA35’s compatibility with existing farm equipment further contributed to its successful implementation. It easily bolts onto their current machinery, allowing quick adoption without significant expenses. Additionally, Mercer Vu Farms praised Brown Bear Corporation’s excellent customer service, which continued beyond the warranty period.
Ultimately, Mercer Vu Farms’ composting success story highlights the effectiveness of the Brown Bear PA35 Compost Aerator in transforming waste management practices. This system promotes environmental sustainability while improving overall efficiency in agricultural operations. This revision includes clear subheadings for better organization and shorter paragraphs to enhance readability. The content remains focused on Mercer Vu Farms’ successful implementation of the Brown Bear PA35 Compost Aerator while ensuring it is engaging and easy to read.
- Brown Bear Equipment Overview: Discover various models of Brown Bear equipment.
- Innovative Manure Management: Explore innovative manure management solutions.
- Benefits of Composting: Understand the advantages of composting for agricultural operations.
- Mercer Vu Farms Overview: This link provides an overview of Mercer Vu Farms, including their operations, commitment to sustainability, and innovative practices in dairy farming. Mercer Vu Farms .
- Outstanding Achievement in Resource Stewardship: This article highlights Mercer Vu Farms’ recognition for their efforts in resource stewardship and sustainable practices in dairy farming. American Dairy – Mercer Vu Farms .
- Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS): The NRCS provides guidelines and resources related to conservation practices, which can give context to the regulations Mercer Vu Farms is adhering to. NRCS .
