It was anticipated that the House Agriculture Committee would release a Chairman’s mark of a 5 year farm bill authorization this week, but it now appears that a proposal will not surface until after the Easter recess. BTEC continues to remain optimistic that the Community Wood Energy Program (CWEP) will be expanded in scope and receive a higher authorization. We have been advocating with our Forests in the Farm Bill coalition partners for a much more robust CWEP to help our sector, as well as address the residuals issue in the sawmilling sector and provide markets for low grade timber. Our original “ask” was for $50 million in mandatory funding for each of the 5 years in the new Farm Bill. Mandatory funding appears to be unlikely; however we are receiving signals that the authorization will be increased significantly. With key allies on the House and Senate Appropriations Committees, we are hopeful that we can obtain appropriations for this program if we are successful at increasing CWEP’s authorization in the Farm Bill. As always, we will keep you apprised of our progress
Community Wood Energy Program Update
