In response to the increased use of digesters in the United States, the Anaerobic Digester Operator Training Program is being offered April 13-15, 2011 in Fond du Lac, WI. The program provides a systems perspective for digester operator safety and digester management.

The training program will highlight design options while helping participants learn how to optimize digester system operation. An on-farm safety assessment and walk-through will also be part of the program. Detailed operational and trouble-shooting information will include system start-up, process control, and monitoring to provide a framework to maintain operator safety while achieving consistent biogas production.

An operator panel composed of industry, municipal and on-farm digester operators will provide real-world expertise pertaining to digester operation and management. Information about biogas and digestate end use, regulations and permits, and an update about environmental issues will complete the training.

The program is a collaborative effort from University of Wisconsin (UW); UW-Extension, Michigan State University Extension, Solid and Hazardous Waste Education Center; and the Michigan Department of Agriculture. More information, brochure and registration information are available at fyi.uwex.edu/digesteroperatorprogram/.