About Us

Woody biomass in forests is a huge potential resource in California. Many forests are at great risk of wildfire or disease due to interruptions in the natural fire cycle. Ecological restoration and fuels reduction projects create large volumes of woody biomass. This material is often burnt in piles in the forest when it could be used to make products or energy. Woody biomass utilization offers land managers an opportunity to dispose of material in a cost effective manner and reduce emissions while creating local economic development.

The Woody Biomass Utilization group based at UC Berkeley is raising awareness and assisting in the following areas:

Woody Biomass Information - understanding the resource, the potential, the technology and the markets
Workshops - held throughout California and the West, primarily for land managers, contractors, community members, primary and secondary industry and other stakeholders

Grants - information and assistance is available for relevant grant programs

We provide opportunities to coordinate and share information on woody biomass utilization activities, to identify key research and extension needs, and to develop projects that address those needs.

Partners