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Hudson Valley Biogas Circular Systems Initiative
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Systems methodology

Methodology: Site selection & system design

This page records the filters, layers, and partnership logic behind every HVB proposal so that circuits stay accountable, inclusive, and ready for real-world deployment.

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How this site was selected: Mapping layers pair feedstocks with infrastructure, the matrix approach (industrial/hauling, feedstock variation, pyrolysis, space/expansion) distills the strongest candidates, and the 25-50 mile coverage logic keeps proposals balanced. Read the methodology.

Mapping & visual inspection

We layer feedstock sources (ag, institutional, municipal) atop infrastructure tracings (transfer stations, rail, compost yards, pipe corridors) so every proposal sits on a complete map. The layered atlas at data/maps/atlas lets us toggle those layers and test whether the story on the paper map matches what shows up on the ground.

Visual inspection matters because a mapped compost site may still be yard/wood-only or locked in a legacy contract—the walk-through flags those realities before we build a pilot around it.

Selection logic

Our coverage goal stretches from New York City to the Capital Region so the Hudson Valley story connects to the densest demand corridors. Proposals are spaced 25–50 miles apart, which keeps the network dense enough for logistics while respecting the 25-mile Excess Food Waste Law requirement for shared collection partners.

The spacing rule also means no county becomes overtaxed—miles between proposals remain manageable and the law’s collection radius stays defensible when we talk to regulators.

Equity & feasibility

We cap proposals at two per county to spread investment and keep the footprint regional. That limit enforces distributed impact, prevents undue pressure on local authorities, and ensures we can give each opportunity the operational support it needs from partners across the valley.

Matrix approach

Four quick-reference matrices capture the most important dimensions during shortlist reviews. Entries get marked green (ready), yellow (watch list), or left blank (neutral) so reviewers can compare contexts without drowning in pages of prose.

  • Industrial & hauling: access to trucks, rail, or barges plus co-located industrial partners.
  • Feedstock variation: volume, seasonality, contaminants, and compatibility with anaerobic digestion.
  • Pyrolysis potential: thermal backbone, biochar demand, and synergy with AD digestate.
  • Space & circular economy expansion: available acreage, synergies with composting, storage, or ag extensions.
The matrices summarize subjective judgment, so we explain every green or yellow shading before a slot in the pilot cycle is confirmed.

Environmental justice

EJ regions are plotted near each proposal so planners can see exposures, burdens, and opportunity areas. That overlay supports inclusive outreach and ensures a seat at the table for communities most impacted by the existing waste system.

Capacity building

We separate General stakeholders (regional planners, funders, municipal leadership) from Specific stakeholders (site operators, haulers, onsite technicians). The distinction helps us tailor capacity-building materials, governance touchpoints, and engagement cadences so each audience gets what it needs without redundant meetings.

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