Forest restoration and biomass utilization for multiple benefits : a case study from Wallowa County, Oregon

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Date

2012

Authors

Davis, Emily Jane
Christoffersen, Nils
Couch, Kyle
Moseley, Cassandra

Journal Title

Journal ISSN

Volume Title

Publisher

Ecosystem Workforce Program, Institute for a Sustainable Environment, University of Oregon

Abstract

Forest restoration and biomass utilization on public lands can create improved stand conditions and opportunities for local economic benefit. In Wallowa County, local nonprofit organization Wallowa Resources and the Wallowa-Whitman National Forest have partnered to restore forest health and watershed conditions. With funding from the USDA Forest Service through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) and the US Endowment, they tested whether mechanical treatment with biomass removal and utilization is costeffective in achieving desired stand improvement and local benefit, in comparison to hand thinning, piling, and burning. They piloted this approach in 2009–11 on a hazardous fuels reduction project called the Reservoir Biomass project.

Description

12 pages
Updated edition. In 2011, the Ecosystem Workforce Program produced a first version of this working paper, which analyzed the Reservoir Biomass project’s costs and outcomes when it was in progress. Since that time, the project has been completed. To document its final outcomes, we have released this updated edition of Working Paper #29. This second version includes updated information about acres treated, materials removed, and costs per acre.

Keywords

Wallowa Resources

Citation