03/26/07 Funding for three biomass projects

Idaho Senator Mike Crapo says that more Idahoans are becoming involved with forest biomass and renewable fuels projects promoted by the Healthy Forests Restoration Act. Crapo was the original Senate sponsor of HFRA more than three years ago. He applauded the U.S. Forest Service's announcement regarding funding for three new Idaho projects. CRAPO "Forest Fuels Solutions in Salmon will use the $250,000 federal grant along with matching local dollars to operate a small-diameter post and pole manufacturing plant in Salmon. The Parma Post and Pole will utilize a 245 thousand dollar grant to purchase new equipment, add employee, and remove salvage timber from our national forests. A $250,000 grant will allow the St. Maries Joint School District to convert its existing fuel oil heating system to one that uses wood chips, The wood chips will heat the schools at reduced costs, cut air pollution from open burning and use homegrown energy instead of foreign oil. Crapo says it's imperative that that innovative energy projects like this are promoted. CRAPO "Projects like these benefit the economy, the environment and our Idaho lifestyle; win-win situations for all involved. All three projects could be on line, up and running by the summer. Today's Idaho Ag News Bill Scott