ARRA Project (WBS)#: LXHAB1340000

Project Title: HRB Prineville Biomass Removal

Index Map Locator #: 34

State: Oregon

Unit: BLM - Prineville District

Description:

Three thinning and fuels reduction projects will generate about 16,000 tons of biomass from 2,400 acres outside of La Pine in Deschutes County. These projects are under an existing stewardship contract. The first project is currently active, with the other two to be initiated this summer/fall.

The biomass debris will be ground on-site and hauled to a power plant in White City, Oregon (90 miles away) and burned to produce electricity. This power is considered green, renewable, and carbon-neutral. Emissions would be much less than that produced by open burning of the debris on-site at the project landing sites.

Recovery Act Funding:

Work will begin immediately after the contract has been awarded and will continue for the next 9 to 12 months.

Benefits:

Using debris from thinning and fuels reduction projects creates biomass that is then used to generate electricity. Additionally, these projects will help to restore ponderosa pine, aspen, old-growth, and meadow habitats.