Mantex US- Bioenergy Insight

The Pine 2 Energy Coalition includes forest and farm landowners and businesses, foresters, universities, environmental and conservation organizations, investors, energy developers, government agencies and other individuals and companies working to promote and expand the development of pine biomass to energy.  The Coalition supports utilizing sustainable technology to produce electricity, ethanol, industrial heat, wood pellets and other forms of energy from pine biomass.

Pine 2 Energy is a diverse group of Georgia-based companies and organizations who take pride in Georgia ’s abundance of forests and other natural resources.  The Coalition focuses on pine because of its prevalence in Georgia and the opportunity for Georgians to grow, consume, and otherwise benefit from their stewardship of these pine forests.

At meetings, members discuss key issues surrounding the industry.  Ross has recently been very instrumental in lining up speakers for meetings- including Georgia Congressman John Barrow.  We are certain that Ross’s expertise on the biomass and clean tech industry will prove to be a valuable asset to the P2E group, and we look forward to see what great things will result from this organization.

The Wise Owl Award is presented annually to the member that has made the most significant contributions to Georgia Forestry.  The recipient is nominated by fellow GFA members for making forestry better for Georgia’s forest landowners and businesses- it is considered the very highest honor in the Georgia Forestry Association. Considering that forestry is responsible for $20 billion in resources for the state, these exemplary protectors of our assets play a huge role in the state’s economy.  When you also pay credence to the developing biomass industry in Georgia, the role becomes all the more important. I urge everyone that sees Dr. Greene in the next few months to give him a pat on the back.

Dr. Dale Greene is the Professor of Forest Operations at UGA’s Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources.  With over 20 years of experience as a professor of forestry, he has groomed some of the most impactful figures in the industry.  He is known for his high expectations in the classroom which have significantly contributed to the success of his students.  Former students of his were present at the award ceremony to witness him receive this honor. It is obvious that these students are the true inspirations for Dr. Greene’s amazing work.

Coincidentally, the reason we have our very own Wise Owl Award in the office is that the same honor was given my grandfather, Bill Binns, in 1994.  My grandfather was the head of Public Affairs and Relations for Union Camp and lived most of his adult life singing the praises of the forestry industry in Georgia.  Needless to say, I knew the slogans “Georgia- We Grow Trees” and “Trees are Renewable” at a very young age.  He would be extremely proud to see the recent developments in biomass and even clean technology that will impact the pulp industry that I have gotten to witness in my first few months with Energy Launch Partners. I am sure he would have been very honored to be at this year’s annual meeting and would have liked to shake Dr. Greene’s hand for a job well done and an honor well deserved.

Energy Launch Partners commends Dr. Dale Greene for the impact he has made in forestry, biomass, and Georgia’s Economy. We also thank the GFA for the role it plays in protecting the state’s vast natural resources.

Dr. Greene (center) accepting the Wise Owl, surrounded by his students.

by: Chandler Case

For over 100 years, GFA has been the “voice of forestry,” working to educate business, environmental and political leaders about responsible forest management practices, reforestation, benefits derived from forestry and landowner rights. In turn, GFA serves as a resource, keeping members informed of legislative and regulatory issues that can affect the long-term health and value of forested land.

GFA also provides a diverse resource of technical information that can help better grow forestry investments. GFA members can assist in implementing responsible land management practices and offer sound advice on making the most of timber resources.