Biomass Energy and Pennsylvania's Forests
The idea of generating energy from biomass or biological material, particularly the byproducts of tree harvesting and thinning is receiving increase attention as an alternative and renewable energy resource to help reduce an over-reliance on imported oil. Communities are discussing biomass as it relates to job creation, sustainable harvesting, heat and energy opportunities, carbon use and storage, community health and economic development. It is a complex issue with a large number of stakeholders and defining traits. On Thursday, January 10th at the Cumberland Woodland Owners' Association meeting, Dr. Michael Jacobson, Penn State Professor of Forest Resources, will speak on biomass as a renewable energy resource and the impact this may have on Pennsylvania forests. The meeting will be held at 7:00 P.M. at the Cumberland County Extension Office which is located at 310 Allen Road in Carlisle. You do not have to be a member and there is no cost to attend.
Pennsylvania's nearly 17 million acres of forest provide an array of values including clean air and water, recreation opportunities, wood products and habitat for thousands of plants and animals. Forests perform many important environmental functions and contribute to our biological wealth. Pennsylvania's forests are also an important renewable natural resource and include some of the nation's most commercially valuable hardwood species. They are not only a source of aesthetic beauty, but also of economic viability and employment for thousands of residents. Understanding the benefits our forests provide and taking stock of our forest resources is necessary for ensuring its sustainability for future generations. To learn more about the research going on concerning biomass energy and how it may impact Pennsylvania forests, plan to attend this meeting.
The Cumberland Woodland Owners Association is an organization of forestland owners and others interested in forestry issues in south central Pennsylvania. For more information about the meeting or the Cumberland Woodland Owners Association, contact Fred Peabody at 717/776-3565 (email: fredp5@earthlink.net).
