National Biomass Producers Association

The NBPA was incorporated as a non-profit organization in mid-August 2007. The decision to organize was made after careful deliberation by producers and other citizens who understand the importance of developing a strong renewable energy industry in this country.

A primary goal is to serve as an information hub providing members and member groups current information on potential feedstocks as well as information on technology development. That information can be used by members as they move toward developing renewable energy projects.

Thus far, we’ve placed emphasis on switchgrass because it’s native to most of the country and performs very well with little maintenance. It also makes excellent forage for cattle, provides good wildlife habitat and can be harvested like any other grass crop. In some areas of the country other feedstock such as wheat straw and corn stover will be readily available and they too can be processed into renewable energy.

For the benefit of NBPA members, we’re closely watching the evolution of bio-energy research, building a reservoir of knowledge and maintaining liaison with companies who are developing the best technologies.


	Company News Ozarks New Energy Conference Ozarks New Energy, Inc. announces the ONE 3 Conference will be held Oct. 7-8, 2010, at Missouri State University’s Plaster Student Union. The 2009 Ozarks New Energy Conference: Solutions for Energy Independence attracted approximately 350 participants April 30 to May 1 at Missouri State University's Plaster Student Union,in Springfield. Forty speakers, more than 40 exhibitors and 19 sponsors made the 2nd annual energy event possible. <click here to see more> Department of Energy's Biomass Program The feedstocks used to produce biofuels currently make up only 15 percent of available crop matter and are located at the end of a long agricultural supply chain. The markets for biofuels, biofuel co-products (e.g., animal feed, corn oil and meal), and crop commodities are linked and susceptible to changes in the prices and availability of crops.

Switchgrass Provides Feed and Fuel for Cattlemen

As cattle producers work through tough economic times, any crop that can prove itself as dual purpose is worth a second look. That is the case with switchgrass, which is becoming more and more popular among cattlemen across the country, as they recognize the value it has as a highly palatable and nutritious feed source and a bioenergy crop that can be used for the future production of renewable energy.

'Grass Roots' Fuel Production

Ed Cahoj is looking for people to grow grass — a lot of grass — and not just any grass, but switchgrass, a native warm season perennial that U.S. Department of Energy scientists believe can cut America’s dependence on foreign oil, reduce carbon dioxide emissions and bolster the farm economy.