The Dairy Digester Program funds projects to build, repair, or upgrade digesters that capture methane from dairy manure and other organic waste. These systems help cut greenhouse gas emissions and can also produce renewable energy, such as electricity or biogas, as well as fertilizer and other useful products.
Anaerobic digestion, the process used in these systems, breaks down manure and other organic material in an oxygen-free tank. This reduces methane emissions, improves wastewater management, and creates byproducts like nutrient-rich fertilizer. For dairy farms, digesters can also reduce odors, capture methane for energy, and provide economic and environmental benefits for farmers and their communities.
Funding details
In the 2025 Regular Session, the Washington Legislature appropriated $13.2 million in Climate Commitment Act (CCA) capital funding for anaerobic digester projects at dairies.
Eligibility guidelines
Eligible applicants should be:
- Licensed to do business in the state of Washington or submit a statement of commitment to become licensed in Washington within 30 calendar days of being selected as an Apparently Successful Contractor. (This requirement does not apply to tribal entities.)
- In good standing with all applicable federal, state and local laws and requirements, including the Department of Commerce.
Key dates
- October 7-October 14, 2025: Pre-application and non-applicant feedback period.
- October 22-December 10, 2025: Full application open period.
- October 29, 2025: Full Application Bidder’s conference.
- February 2026: Awards announced.