By Blake Jackson
The Great Lakes Timber Professionals Association (GLTPA) has voiced strong support for the Wisconsin Forestry Revitalization Bill, introduced by Senators Mary Felzkowski (R-Tomahawk), Romaine Quinn (R-Birchwood), and Rob Stafsholt (R-New Richmond), along with Representatives Jeff Mursau (R-Crivitz) and Chanz Green (R-Grand View).
The proposed legislation seeks to establish a biorefinery in Hayward that would convert low-value woody biomass into renewable aviation fuel and naphtha. Supporters say this development would provide a much-needed new market for the state’s timber sector, which has faced significant challenges in recent years.
“Wisconsin’s forest products industry has long been the backbone of our rural economy, but recent mill closures, and market disruptions have taken a heavy toll,” said Henry Schienebeck, Executive Director of GLTPA.
“This bill will stabilize our industry, create a high-value market for woody biomass, and strengthen the future of loggers, truckers, foresters, landowners, and mills.”
With the closure of mills such as Billerud Wisconsin Rapids, Duluth, and Park Falls Paper, the industry has lost nearly 30% of its wood-consuming market. The biorefinery project aims to help recover those losses while supporting renewable energy efforts.
“This is a forward-looking solution that secures the future of Wisconsin’s forest economy,” added GLTPA Board Member Max Ericson. “By investing in a biorefinery, we’re not only sustaining our forests and our industry, but also positioning Wisconsin as a leader in renewable energy production.”
Photo Credit: gettyimages-paul-hartley
Categories: Wisconsin, Energy, Government & Policy