Project will develop a biochar product to support active forest management by enhancing markets for low-value wood

Arizona State University (ASU), through its Office of Research and Sponsored Projects Administration (ORSPA), received a $500,000 Project Grant from the U.S. Forest Service under the Wood Utilization Assistance program (CFDA 10.674), effective September 19, 2025, with completion targeted for August 31, 2028. The award funds personnel and development efforts to create and test woody biochar-coated granules designed to improve road performance and water runoff quality. This initiative supports active forest management by developing marketable biochar products from low-value wood resources, thereby expanding economic utilization of forest residues and contributing to hazardous fuel reduction objectives.

The project aligns with the Wood Innovations program's focus on technological development that strengthens forest products markets while supporting sustainable forest management. Biochar development from woody biomass represents an emerging application within the program's investment portfolio, complementing traditional wood energy and mass timber initiatives. ASU's research and development activities will generate technical knowledge and commercializable biochar products intended to create new market opportunities for low-value forest wood, supporting the long-term economic and environmental management of forest lands across the region.

Funding will be used to pay for personnel to develop and test woody biochar coated granules to improve road performance and water runoff quality.