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DENVER, CO– Representative Donald Valdez’s bipartisan bill to commission a study about biomass utilization and its benefits passed the House of second reading today.
“Biomass has the potential to improve soil health, benefit watersheds, aid in carbon sequestration, and serve as a crucial forest fire prevention tool,” said Rep. Donald Valdez, D-La Jara. “This study will give us the data we need to make informed decisions about the future of biomass in Colorado. I’m proud of the bipartisan effort that led to commissioning this study, and will remain engaged as we move forward on this important issue of shared stewardship.”
HB21-1180 requires the State Forest Service to conduct a study of biomass utilization. The study will consult various state agencies, local officials who serve communities in the wildland-urban interface, and other interested stakeholders to prepare a report that must be presented by March 1, 2022. The scope of the study includes identifying the potential costs and benefits of increasing biomass utilization throughout the state and any administrative or statutory changes needed to increase biomass utilization.