Madison – Following a press conference unveiling new legislation to support Wisconsin’s forestry industry, Rep. Rob Summerfield (R-Bloomer) issued the following statement:
“The Northwoods has always depended on the strength of our forests and the people who work them. Investing in this emerging industry will create family-supporting jobs while also keeping our forests healthy and productive for future generations. I am proud to co-sponsor this bill to ensure long-term growth and opportunity to northern Wisconsin.”
The bill provides state support in the form of tax credits and a grant for a proposed $1.5 billion facility in Hayward that would convert woody biomass into sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). Once fully operational, the plant is expected to create 150 jobs, process 880,000 tons of residue each year, and produce 48 million gallons of biofuel. It is expected to generate $1.2 billion in revenue by its third year of operations.