BCAP Program, Senate Resolution, Economic Stimulus, HF President Testify
BCAP Program Profiled in Washington Post
The Washington Post story from last week focusing on issues
related to the Biomass Crop Assistance Program (BCAP) has stirred up reactions
throughout the forest products industry. (click here
to view the article). The BCAP program was passed by Congress in the 2008 Farm
Bill, and USDA is currently writing regulations to administer the
program. The program’s stated aim is to kick-start the biomass industry
as a means of developing renewable energy sources across the US. The
two-year program would allow subsidies of up to $45 per ton for biomass
suppliers and qualifying producers. According to the article, some within
the forest products industry are balking at the program and raising concerns
about possible market distortion. Others, particularly landowners and
pellet producers, are supportive. The HF Board will consider the BCAP
issue at the upcoming February Board meeting.
Senate Resolution on Hardwood for Green Building
HF is working closely with staff of Senate Agriculture Committee
Chairman Lincoln (D-AR) to develop the Senate version of H.Resolution 81, which
was passed by the House last year. The Resolution states the support of
Congress for inclusion of hardwood products in Green Building schemes.
Senator Lincoln intends to be the original sponsor of the resolution and HF
will be garnering as many other Senate supporters as possible to sign on with
her. (H.Res. 81 had 52 bipartisan co-sponsors when it was brought to the
House floor for debate and subsequent unanimous passage.)
Economic Stimulus
HF is pushing to have wood building products included in
draft “Cash for Caulkers” legislation. The program could provide as much
as $12,000 in tax credits to homeowners upgrading or renovating their
residences by installing more energy-efficient products and materials. HF
is using lifecycle data and other wood product information to demonstrate the
important role of hardwoods in improving building energy efficiency.
HF President to Testify on Export Issues
HF President, Mr. Jameson French, will be testifying in
February before the U.S. International Trade Commission regarding an
investigation into the export barriers and opportunities experienced by small
and medium-sized American firms. HF is working with partner associations to
identify key export issues from our industry. Jamey is the CEO of
Northland Forest Products in Kingston, NH.
