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Biomass is the most important renewable energy source in the world. In Virginia, enhanced utilization of woody biomass for bioenergy is a promising arena. And while there are challenges, the truth of the matter is that wood is a viable alternative to fossil fuels. Understanding how woody bioenergy markets improve sustainable economic opportunities for industries, consultants, municipal leaders, land owners, property managers, environmental planners, and economic development specialists is a critical first step. Recognizing this, a number of cooperators have joined together to plan two symposia titled "Woody Bioenergy in Virginia: Managing Our Resources for a Profitable and Sustainable System". These symposia will cover the operational and economic challenges and opportunities related to large-scale woody bioenergy in Virginia. One will be offered on September 4th at the Higher Education Center in Abingdon (rural focus – agenda) and the other on September 29th at Virginia State University in Petersburg (urban/suburban focus – agenda). Potential uses of recovered waste and harvested wood to create energy will be discussed. Aspects of processing, distribution, and utilization will also be presented in conjunction with a discussion on the key economic considerations associated with using wood to generate energy on a large scale. Case study speakers from across the country will reinforce the topics covered and help set the stage for a concluding collaborative exercise designed to identify opportunities in Virginia. Results of the panel presentations and collaborative exercises will be compiled and submitted to the Governor for consideration in 2009 – Virginia’s year of energy and environment. Notable Speakers at Abingdon: Congressman Rick Boucher and State Forester Carl Garrison Notable Speakers at Petersburg: Congressman Randy Forbes and Stephen A. Walz, Senior Advisor for Energy Policy for Governor Timothy Kaine Who Should Attend? Community Leaders, Planners, and Economic Development OfficersWhat are the pros and cons of woody bioenergy? What does this mean for economic viability, community well-being, and environmental sustainability? What are the latest procurement and processing technologies? Forest Industry ProfessionalsHow will woody bioenergy industries affect your operations? What steps are necessary to take advantage of this emerging market? ForestersHow can you access woody bionenergy markets and what are the technical aspects of sustainable management for bioenergy? Logging and Vegetation Management ContractorsHow can you take advantage of woody bioenergy markets? How do you process and sell cutting residues? What equipment do you need? What are the costs/benefits? Forest LandownersDo your woodlands need thinning? Are you considering other management options? How can woody bioenergy markets enhance profitability and visual qualities? Developers and BuildersBurning woody biomass on site? Learn about selling waste trees harvested on development sites for bioenergy production. When and Where? Rural FocusLocation: Abingdon, VA - South West Virginia Higher Education Center – Directions Urban/Suburban FocusLocation: Petersburg, VA - Virginia State University, L. Douglas Wilder Building – Directions For additional information, contact: John Munsell Continuing Education: CFE Credits: 6 Category 1 CFE Credits
SHARP Logger: 6 Credits Project brought to you by: The Southern Forest Research Partnership Program Sponsors and Contributors:
Planning Partners: Virginia Cooperative Extension Virginia Department of Forestry Virginia Department of Mines, Minerals, and Energy Smurfit-Stone Container Corporation Conservation Management Institute ~ to the top ~ |
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