Project Updates
Where Things Stand
The Forest Biomass Business Center was originally developed around two flagship initiatives: a woody biomass energy facility and a sawmill partnership with Hat Creek Lumber. Neither project is moving forward in its original form. The energy facility's power purchase agreement was terminated, and the sawmill partnership was determined not to be feasible following a formal feasibility study.
The need that inspired these projects remains as urgent as ever. Forest restoration work throughout our region continues to generate substantial volumes of woody material that need an economically viable outlet. What has evolved is our strategy for meeting that need.
A Campus Approach to Forest Utilization
Rather than relying on a single large facility, FBBC is developing a campus of complementary, co-located wood products and biomass businesses that can share infrastructure and forest restoration materials. This approach creates a more diversified and resilient model, with multiple businesses and markets working together rather than depending on any one contract or buyer.
The campus is designed to serve the substantial forest restoration work already underway throughout the region. The North Yuba Forest Partnership, a coalition of nine organizations, is restoring 275,000 acres of the North Yuba watershed. This work will generate significant volumes of woody material that can be put to productive use through local businesses and manufacturing.
Three feasibility studies for potential campus businesses have now been completed, covering a separate, smaller-scale sawmill concept, post & pole, and commercial bundled firewood. A comprehensive business plan for the full campus is expected by the end of September 2026.
As the campus develops, it has the potential to create year-round employment opportunities, support new local businesses, and produce useful wood products from materials generated through forest restoration and hazardous fuels reduction. In doing so, FBBC can contribute to a stronger local economy while helping improve the health and resilience of the forest and the Yuba River Watershed.
Exploring a Larger-Scale Energy Facility
Separate from the campus development described above, our developer partner, Engeman USA, is evaluating the feasibility of a larger, 10 to 12 megawatt biomass energy facility. This is an early-stage exploration, and research, feasibility studies, permitting, and financing will all need to be completed before any commitments are made.
This exploration is separate from the FBBC campus strategy. We will continue to keep the community informed and will share updates here as the evaluation progresses.
