(Photo above | Courtesy of City Club of Central Oregon)
While solar and wind power have become popular renewable energy sources in the Northwest, biomass energy—defined as heat or electricity generated from organic materials—has struggled to gain a foothold in the region. However, a number of professionals are working to reverse that trend by partnering with public and private institutions to increase the profile of biomass in Oregon not only as a clean energy source, but as a tool to improve forest health and reduce major wildfire risk.
Is biomass a good fit for Central Oregon’s energy portfolio, economy, and environment?
How clean is biomass – won’t it be smoky?
Could a biomass industry in Central Oregon be a key partner in wildfire risk reduction and forest health restoration, or would a renewed interest in removing woody materials from forests prompt us to repeat forest management mistakes from the past?
Join City Club as we answer these and other burning questions about biomass.
Panelists:
Dylan Kruse, Policy Director for Sustainable Northwest
Andrew Haden, founder of Wisewood
Moderator:
Jennifer Letz, sustainability consultant based in Bend
When:
Thursday, January 26, 11:3am – 1pm at the Riverhouse on the Deschutes Convention Center. To register, please visit www.cityclubco.org or call 541-633-7163. Registration (closes at noon on Monday, December 12) is only $25 for members and $40 for non-members. Plated lunch is included.
About City Club of Central Oregon
City Club of Central Oregon exists to be the top-of-mind hub for citizens and community leaders. We intentionally shape our community and influence public policy while preserving our uniquely warm and connected culture. We champion “passionately non-partisan” discussion between diverse perspectives.
Contact:
Joey Drucker, Executive Director
541-633-7163
info@CityClubCO.com
