Wisconsin Lawmakers Introduce Support for Sustainable Aviation Fuel Facility

Legislation to offer state financial support for a plant to convert low-quality wood harvested from Wisconsin forests to make sustainable aviation fuel was introduced on September 23.

The Forest Revitalization Act envisions the use of Wisconsin Economic Development tax credits and $150 million in bonds to support the project planned for a site in Hayward.

Senator Mary Felzkowski, who announced the legislation, cited European Union requirements for the consumption of sustainable aviation fuel as one factor that will bring demand for the facility. She said EU regulations will require 20% of aviation fuel used in the EU will be required to be this new type of fuel by 2035.

Felzkowski said that supporters have discussed the proposed legislation with Governor Tony Evers. She was joined in announcing the legislation by Representative Jeff Mursau. Felzkowski and Mursau are both Republicans.

Supporters of the legislation cited a recent report by Greenfire, a group of retired foresters, which said that Wisconsin forests are at risk for fire and disease due to insufficient harvests and thinning. Harvest volumes of low-grade wood have dropped precipitously since the closing of the Verso paper mill in Wisconsin Rapids in 2020 and smaller paper mills in subsequent years.

Felzkowski said that plans include having Johnson Timber of Hayward and a German manufacturer of equipment for the distillation of sustainable aviation fuel to be involved in the project.