The state Department of Environmental Conservation is studying ways to convert leftover wood from logging into a biomass fuel.
The agency has a $64,000 grant from the U.S. Forest Service for a 1-year project to evaluate whether there'd be enough potential users in and around the Adirondack Park to make woody biomass a worthwhile energy source.
DEC Commissioner Pete Grannis says the state is looking for innovative ways to enhance the economic and environmental health of North Country communities. Harnessing locally grown energy sources such as low-grade wood might be part of the answer.
The program also could help private forest land owners in the Adirondacks find new markets for low-grade wood, contributing to a sustainable economy.
The study would focus only on private lands.Associated Press via WSTM News
