Biomass grant money available from state

The Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation  is now accepting proposals for the 2014 Wood Product and Biomass Utilization Grant.

The intent of the grant is to support increased and improved utilization of forest products, including biomass, in Montana. 

This is accomplished by providing financial assistance to entities engaged in innovative and viable wood and biomass market development, utilization, and expansion opportunities. 

Grant funds are available through the Montana DNRC’s partnership with the U.S. Forest Service State and Private Forestry Program.

According to program Manager Julie Kies, “We look forward to reviewing proposals from across the state that demonstrate promise for diverse and viable forest product manufacturing and utilization that benefit the communities and forests of Montana. Our previously awarded projects have included wood energy system installations, and assistance to producers of innovative and value-added wood and biomass-based products.”

Application details are available on the DNRC Web site at www.dnrc.mt.gov/Forestry/Assistance/Biomass.

The deadline for applications is Aug. 8.

The goal of the program is to promote and support diverse and robust forest markets and industry infrastructure in Montana as integral components in managing and retaining the forest land base for multiple products and benefits.

For more information, contact Julie Kies at (406) 542-4280 or Maureen Bookwalter at (406) 542-4371.