Wood wastes and residues generated along the Colorado Front Range as a potential fuel source

Abstract

Throughout the United States there is interest in utilizing renewable fuel sources as an alternative to coal and nat-ural gas. This project was initiated to determine the availability of wood wastes and residues for use as fuel in ce-ment kilns and power plants located along the Colorado Front Range. Research was conducted through literature searches, phone surveys, personal communications, and public meetings to determine the types of wood wastes and residues generated. Four main sources were identified: municipal solid waste, construction and demolition debris, primary and secondary wood processing residues, and forest residues. Quantities of wood wastes and residues generated were estimated, separated into components, and further evaluated to determine availability for recovery and utilization. Overall, the results of this project made it evident that substantial quantities of wood wastes and residues exist. However, the recovery costs currently present a significant barrier to utilizing this ma-terial as an alternative fuel.

Citation

Ward, Julie E.; Mackes, Kurt H.; Lynch, Dennis L. 2004. Wood wastes and residues generated along the Colorado Front Range as a potential fuel source. Res. Pap. RMRS-RP-50. Fort Collins, CO: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Rocky Mountain Research Station. 9 p.