This project aims to address the pressing need for dry firewood and sustainably harvested building materials, where residents face extreme winter temperatures and high heating costs

Project Grant Award Summary

DNA Timberworks LLC received $170,400 from the USDA Forest Service's Wood Utilization Assistance program (CFDA 10.674) on September 16, 2025, to establish firewood processing infrastructure and supply capacity in Alaska. The project will deliver a minimum of 500 cords of dry firewood annually to address critical heating needs and air quality challenges in the region, where residents face extreme winter temperatures and limited commercial firewood availability. The award funds the establishment of a firewood processing facility with associated infrastructural improvements designed to enhance production efficiency and create a sustainable local wood products market.

The initiative integrates forest management objectives by partnering with local foresters to implement sustainable harvesting practices that mitigate spruce bark beetle infestation and wildfire risks while providing affordable, reliable heating materials. The project is scheduled for completion by May 1, 2027, and reflects the Wood Innovations program's strategic focus on using forest resources to support active forest management, strengthen community resilience to power outages, and promote responsible stewardship of forest lands.

IT also seeks to tackle the present air quality issues with only three registered commercial firewood sellers and a significant waitlist, this initiative aims to provide at least 500 cords of dry firewood annually. By partnering with local foresters and adhering to sustainable logging practices, the project will also tackle issues like spruce bark beetle infestation and wildfire risks. The establishment of a firewood processing facility, along with infrastructural improvements, will enhance production capacity and efficiency, ensuring a reliable supply of firewood while fostering a local wood product economy. Ultimately, this project aims to strengthen the community's resilience to power outages and rising construction costs, supporting access to affordable, sustainable materials while promoting responsible forest management.