By Blake Jackson
The iconic butter masterpiece of the Pennsylvania Farm Show, "Table for All: Pennsylvania Dairy Connects Communities," has embarked on a new journey after its grand display. This 1,000-pound marvel of dairy artistry is not destined for the fridge, but for a far more impactful purpose – renewable energy generation!
On Sunday morning, Brett Reinford, a dairy farmer from Juniata County's Reinford Farms, proudly claimed the decommissioned sculpture. His farm boasts two innovative methane digesters, and the butter, along with tons of food waste from local retailers, will find a new life within them.
"It's an incredible example of a closed-loop system," explains Reinford. "Our digesters offer a win-win for our farm and the community. We turn waste into energy, while reducing greenhouse gas emissions."
Reinford Farms is no stranger to sustainability. They divert a staggering 50,000 tons of food waste from landfills annually, transforming waste into a valuable resource and contributing to a cleaner future.
Pennsylvania Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding applauds this initiative: "We're thrilled to showcase dairy farmers like the Reinfords alongside Pennsylvania Dairy at the Farm Show. They're not just feeding our families, they're leading the way in sustainable farming practices that benefit us all."
So, the next time you witness the artistry of the Farm Show butter sculpture, remember that its journey may not end with its display. It could be powering homes, businesses, and a cleaner future, thanks to the ingenuity of Pennsylvania's dairy farmers and their commitment to sustainability.
Photo Credit: pennsylvania-farm-show
Categories: Pennsylvania, General