Waste-cleaning technology getting test in Lancaster County

When manure is used as fertilizer, nitrogen, phosphorus, and other potentially damaging chemicals eventually (often in about two years) make their way to groundwater and streams, and to bigger waters such as the Chesapeake.

The chemicals cause explosive growth of aquatic vegetation, which eventually sucks oxygen from the water; that, in turn, kills fish and other aquatic life, threatening the bay's fragile culture and economy.

Nationwide efforts are under way to reduce such pollution, with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency setting goals for states. That's where Bion comes in.

Jarrett said she was encouraged by the potential of the company's system because it addresses the pollution and creates a renewable energy source. But she and others cautioned that few farms could generate the capital needed to invest in such a system. "I'm glad there's a model out there, but small farms can be big problems," she said.

Jarrett and Kelly O'Neill, agriculture specialist for the Chesapeake Bay Foundation, said they would like to see more small-scale projects that are within reach of more farmers.

Bion's Schaefer suggested that someday, farmers will be able to form cooperatives, pool resources, and create regional waste processing systems. In the meantime, he likes the fact that Bion is testing its technology on a farm that, by virtue of size, has been a major contributor to the pollution problem.

He said such farm-based systems may also help mend fences between two frequent adversaries: agriculture and environmentalists.

"It's an opportunity to do some healing," Schafer said, "and allows agriculture to be part of the solution."

To watch a video of Bion's chief operating officer Jeremy Rowland at Kreider Farms in Manheim, Pa., go to www.philly.com/rowlan

Contact staff writer Amy Worden at 717-783-2584 or aworden@phillynews.com.