PUBLIC STATEMENT BY UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA:

University of California’s Division of Agriculture and Natural Resources (UC ANR) is exploring the viability of procuring land and facilities, associated with the biomass facility in Loyalton, to develop a new Research and Extension Center (REC) focused on development of  high-value biobased products.  As California grapples with the many challenges of forest stewardship, it is vital that we invest in research  on new, and innovative, ways to utilize biomass.  Recent progress on commercial bioplastics, cellulosic nanofibers, and biomass as a feedstock for chemicals and polymers offer great opportunities to both improve forest health while supporting viable new industries.  UC ANR is currently initiating environmental and engineering reviews and assessments of the Loyalton plant and land; final decisions on this particular property will depend on  those assessments and subsequent negotiations with the owner.  Regardless of whether UC ANR procures the Loyalton facility, we are strongly committed to expanding our efforts to serve California’s forest communities through improving the health of its ecosystems and people while also supporting vibrant regional economies.