Biomass Energy

Forest biomass represents a huge potential resource for energy production. Significant amounts of currently un-merchantable biomass are available from forest resource management and wood products manufacturing in the North Coast region. Biomass energy producing facilities could provide a potential economic use for this material. Such use could also provide an economic stimulus in our North Coast rural communities and decrease fuels loading and potential for catastrophic wildfires in our forests.

The NCRCDC has supported several investigations, conducted outreach, and produced reports considering the use of biomass for power in our area. Specifically, the NCRCDC has:

Completed a grant from the US Forest Service to study biomass quantity and potential energy utilization in Mendocino County. The final report for this grant is available to download.

Funded technical assistance to the City of Fort Bragg regarding biomass fuel use. A copy of the NCRCDC report is available to download.

Commenced a grant to provide detailed economic analysis for biomass combined heat and power project at Parlin Fork, Mendocino County. Information will soon be available to download.

Commenced a grant to further evaluate the economic feasibility of potential commercial-scale biomass power plant near Fort Bragg, Mendocino County. Information will soon be available to download.

Sought funds to expand fuels reduction programs in Mendocino and Sonoma Counties. Information on this project will soon be available to download.