Prince of Wales Island’s forest industry faces moderate prospects for feedstock supply and infrastructure, largely due to a dependence on significantly scaling current lumber production and securing more funding. While there’s potential to quadruple the biomass heating market and a projected increase in secondary forest wood fiber over the next 15-20 years, challenges persist. The region’s wood supply is severely limited by the recent ban on old-growth harvesting, leading to sawmill closures. Additionally, its remote location creates obstacles related to markets, infrastructure, and workforce availability.
SEC recognizes the importance of finding unique heating solutions throughout the most remote regions of Southeast Alaska, and is committed to helping build up the infrastructure of biofuels generation while ensuring the utmost care for the old growth that has made the region a sought after destination for industry for over a century.