Renewable Energy Innovation: Woody Biomass Applications ...
Federal grants are made to develop innovation in renewable energy through the application of woody biomass from national forests. Additional benefits are found in reducing the risk of wildfires and providing economic incentives to rural communities. ...
... "This year's recipients were selected based on a number of factors, including those that make it economical to remove woody biomass for forest lands and turning it into marketable products, while reducing the costs of recovery. In addition, grants were awarded for projects targeted at removing economic and market barriers in using small-diameter trees and woody biomass.
Woody biomass includes trees, woody plants, limbs, tops, and needles that are byproducts of ecosystem restoration and hazardous fuel reduction activities in national forests and grasslands. Accumulation of this material can provide fuel, which can increase the intensity and spread of wildfires. Many communities across the United States have begun to use biomass byproducts to manufacture specialty products, generate energy, such as steam and electric, and for a variety of other uses, such as garden mulch. " ...