Case Study
BakerHicks – DSM Clean Cow 3 Project
Client: DSM
Project: Clean Cow Program – Bovaer Production Facility
Project Value: £250 Million
Role: Field Engineering Manager (Project Manager)
Duration: Ongoing
Project Overview
DMA are part of the team delivering a major new build food production facility for DSM’s innovative Clean Cow Program, which focuses on reducing methane emissions from cattle by developing Bovaer, a revolutionary feed additive. The project is part of DSM's broader sustainability initiatives to address climate change and reduce the agriculture sector’s greenhouse gas emissions. The facility will support the production of Bovaer, a compound that can reduce methane emissions by 30% in dairy cows and up to 90% in beef cows with as little as a quarter teaspoon of additive per day.
Project Scope & Responsibilities
As the Field Engineering Manager, Kenny oversees the execution of three key packages:
Civils – Managing the foundational and structural groundwork to ensure a solid base for the build.
Steel Structure – Overseeing the erection of the structural framework for the facility.
Cladding & Fit-Out – Coordinating the external and internal finish, ensuring high-quality standards for the new build.
This role involves leading a team of seven engineers, interfacing with the client to maintain clear communication and expectations, and working alongside a commercial manager to administer NEC 4 contracts. Kenny’s responsibilities extend to ensuring the project is delivered on time, within budget and compliant with all technical and safety requirements.
Key Challenges & Solutions
Technical Compliance: A core challenge is ensuring all solutions are aligned with DSM’s technical requirements for a food production process environment. This involves close coordination with multiple design teams and contractors to ensure all standards are met.
Change Control: Given the evolving nature of R&D projects like DSM’s Clean Cow program, managing changes to project scope and budget is critical. Through NEC 4 contract administration, Kenny ensures all changes are documented, approved and integrated smoothly into the project timeline and budget.
Environmental Impact: As Bovaer is directly tied to methane reduction and sustainability, every aspect of the project is aligned with DSM’s commitment to environmentally friendly solutions. This includes minimising waste during construction and adhering to sustainable building practices.
Results & Impact
Innovation in Food Production: The new facility will play a pivotal role in scaling up the production of Bovaer, enabling DSM to bring this groundbreaking product to a global market.
Environmental Benefits: The reduction in methane emissions achieved through Bovaer will contribute significantly to global greenhouse gas reduction goals, helping to meet the Paris Agreement’s targets.
Project Excellence: The successful management of the civils, steel structure, cladding and fit-out packages has ensured the project remains on track, with a focus on safety, technical excellence, and efficient change management.
Conclusion
The DSM Clean Cow 3 project is a landmark in both sustainable agriculture and innovative food production. As the Field Engineering Manager, Kenny is part of the team driving the project forward, ensuring that BakerHicks delivers a world-class facility that supports DSM's vision for a more sustainable future. This project showcases engineering excellence and demonstrates how targeted research and development can address some of the world’s most pressing environmental challenges.