Federal grant aids local biomass efforts

Sustainable Northwest was awarded a grant in 2007 from the USDA to promote woody biomass use in Baker, Crook and Deschutes, Oregon counties.

WASHINGTON - Rep. Greg Walden (R-Ore.) announced Friday that Sustainable Northwest of Portland was awarded a $249,560 grant from the USDA to promote woody biomass use in Baker, Crook and Deschutes counties.

The purpose of the grant is to help stimulate a local market for low-value material removed during forest restoration activities, such as reducing hazardous fuels, handling insect and diseased conditions, or treating forestlands impacted by catastrophic weather.

Walden submitted a letter of support to the USDA on behalf of Sustainable Northwest in November.

"I am always happy to see federal investment that encourages local businesses to be creative partners in responsible forest restoration," Walden said. "This grant will allow Sustainable Northwest to utilize woody biomass from forest restoration for economic development. The project is a win-win for both forest health and the local economy."

The grant will help Sustainable Northwest promote the expansion of small diameter log processing and promote the conversion of heating systems to woody biomass-fueled systems at both the Sisters School District and at Prineville-based Woodgrain Millwork.

Sustainable Northwest will also partner with the Baker County Landowners Association to develop a merchandising yard for small diameter materials.

Ryan Temple, the director of Sustainable Northwest's Healthy Forests, Healthy Communities Partnership, cited Walden's knowledge and understanding of forest issues and professionals as keys to projects and grant programs.

"Sustainable Northwest really appreciates the congressman's work for Oregon and on behalf of healthy forests," Temple said.