Lake Superior Woody Biomass Production Trials
Wisconsin's agricultural research stations have been the site of hybrid timber production trials for decades, primarily to research the viability of hybrids as a pulp source for the paper industry. The Lake Superior Woody Biomass trials take this research to the next level, evaluating both hybrid and native tree species to evaluate their production levels and the economic feasibility of growing woody biomass crops as a revenue source on private lands.
An existing stand of hybrid poplar on the Research Station grounds was harvested and is being evaluated for regrowth potential from the suckering stumps, while another 10.5 acres was planted with hybrid species, native species, or a mix of both. The new trial plots are designed to test yields when the trees are planted as a monoculture, and also to test different row plantings to determine whether land can be effectively used for both woody biomass crops and traditional food and grain crops.
The Lake Superior Woody Biomass Production trials are made possible through funding support from Xcel Energy and Wisconsin's Office of Energy Independence. Trial design and oversight is provided by Jason Fischbach, agriculture agent for the University of Wisconsin Extension offices serving Ashland and Bayfield counties.
View the 2010 project report below.
An existing stand of hybrid poplar on the Research Station grounds was harvested and is being evaluated for regrowth potential from the suckering stumps, while another 10.5 acres was planted with hybrid species, native species, or a mix of both. The new trial plots are designed to test yields when the trees are planted as a monoculture, and also to test different row plantings to determine whether land can be effectively used for both woody biomass crops and traditional food and grain crops.
The Lake Superior Woody Biomass Production trials are made possible through funding support from Xcel Energy and Wisconsin's Office of Energy Independence. Trial design and oversight is provided by Jason Fischbach, agriculture agent for the University of Wisconsin Extension offices serving Ashland and Bayfield counties.
View the 2010 project report below.
| lake_superior_woody_biomass_trials_project_report.pdf |
