– ‘A’ Rating Will Unlock Opportunities for Corn Stover Biomass Utilization –
Region Nine Development Commission and Ecostrat are pleased to announce the issue of the Region Nine BDO Zone. The BDO Zone is the state's first ‘A’ rating for Corn Stover and stretches across a 75-mile drive distance centered in St. James, MN.
The Region Nine BDO Zone is rated ‘A’, indicating ‘high quality’ feedstock supply chains and infrastructure, attributed to the regions abundant underutilized corn stover, readily available for projects at low risk. As one of the nation's top corn-producing areas with no established competition for corn stover in the region and a surplus of potential suppliers, the BDO Zone is strategically positioned to accommodate large-scale bio-based manufacturing projects. Additionally, the region benefits from its proximity to major metropolitan areas, on-site utilities, and robust road infrastructure, further enhancing its strategic advantages.
“I am excited about the economic opportunities that will be available in South Central Minnesota as a result of the ‘A’ rating. It will position the region as an attractive area for future investments in sustainable economic development,” added Nicole Griensewic, Executive Director, Region Nine Development Commission.
“This report emphasizes what is possible within our region to utilize our existing resources for greater sustainability and economic improvement. We welcome the opportunity to maximize our use of available corn stover and biomass.” Stated Andrea Boettger, Council President of the City of New Ulm and Vice Chair of the Region Nine Development Commission.
Jordan Solomon, Chairman of the BDO Zone Initiative, added, “The ‘A’ rating not only signifies the region's unwavering commitment to regional progress but also reflects their visionary approach to harnessing the nearly 1.5 million tonnes of abundant and sustainable corn stover for a low-carbon future.”
To see the full BDO Zone Rating for Region Nine please click here, or visit www.bdozone.org.
