During National Forest Products Week, we recognize the value of forest products and commit to conservation practices that help responsibly manage forests.

MASSACHUSETTS—In spring 2021, the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation received a $279,000 grant from the USDA Forest Service’s Wood Education & Resource Center. They intend to use the grant money to replace fuel oil furnaces with those that burn wood pellets at three state park facilities.

Replacement of the heating systems will enable the state to advance sustainability goals in addition to supporting the regional forestry sector. At least 80 tons of locally sourced wood pellets will be needed annually to fuel the new heating units. This replaces 8,900 gallons of No. 2 heating oil that the aging heaters currently consume.

Wood heating pellets are manufactured from the sawdust generated at sawmills and other wood processing facilities. Wood pellets are formed by pushing sawdust through circular dies that generate temperatures high enough that the sawdust bonds with the naturally occurring lignin. Locally sourced wood pellets bolster rural forest economies.

Planning for the project involved the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation   requesting pre-feasibility studies from the Forest Service Wood Energy Technical Assistance Team. Provided as a no-cost service from the Wood Education & Resource Center, the team produces pre-feasibility studies that analyze investment payoff timelines and potential barriers for conversion to wood heat. The data from these studies ensures that wood-to-energy projects have the highest level of success.

“The results from the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation pre-feasibility study provided Forest Service leadership with the confidence to support funding this project and help the State advance its sustainability goals,” said Susan Ellsworth, regional director of Forest Health and Forest Markets.

From concept to implementation, the Wood Education & Resource Center works with the forest industry sector to support the sustainable production of forest products in the 35 states of the eastern hardwood forest region. Located in Princeton, West Virgina, the Wood Education & Resource Center facility encompasses 13 acres, including office space for USDA staff, a training center, a maintenance building and industrial space that is leased for the manufacturing of value-added wood products. For additional information on the Wood Energy Technical Assistance Team or the Wood Education & Resource Center contact Lew.McCreery@usda.gov.