The Lastest in News
Minnesota Public Utilities Commission Supports Secondary Biomass as Carbon Free Fuel
On Thursday, January 15th, the MN Public Utilities Commission ruled in favor of a lifecycle analysis framework in the definition of carbon free energy. This ruling will allow secondary woody biomass residues and mill waste to be considered "carbon-free" for electrical generation. MFI in partnership with MN Power provided supporting briefings and testimony on the subject. Tom Radovich - Executive Vice President for MFI participated in the hearing and following the decision stated, "Woody biomass is recognized globally as a carbon neutral fuel source. The Commission's decision gives utility companies like MN Power the flexibility to use these waste streams to provide sustainable and renewable fuel for electricity generation. We are pleased with the decision."
On February 24th, Tom Radovich, Executive VP of MFI, met with US Forest Service Chief Tom Schultz (far right) at a Forest Resources Association DC Fly-In event to discuss USDA funding freeze impacting DNR forest health, wildfire mitigation, and other forest landowner outreach programs.
Chief Schultz has been instrumental in promoting a culture of forest management in the USFS since being appointed and was gracious enough to talk to the Lake States members beforehand. Following the conversation, the $8 million in USDA funding for the DNR funding was released.
Representatives from MFI and TPA (Timber Producers Association) met with Congressman Pete Stauber on Feb 24th to discuss federal legislation impacting the industry.
We covered Safe Routes Act, Jobs in the Woods Act and H-2B Visa legislation. Congressman Stauber, true to his hockey heritage, presented us with the Herb Brooks 1980 Olympic speech, “Get Moments are made from Great Opportunities”. Our thanks to Congress Stauber on a great visit to the US Capitol and his staff’s hospitality.
