Oregon’s Malheur County earns first ‘A’ rating for biomass feedstock zone in North America

Malheur County in Oregon, United States, has become the first location in North America to receive an ‘A’ rating under the Biomass Development Opportunity (BDO) Zone Initiative, recognising the region’s strong potential to support manure-based bioenergy and bioproduct projects, Bioenergy Insight Magazine reported.

The designation was announced jointly by Malheur County Economic Development, Ecostrat, and the BDO Zone Initiative on April 23. The rated zone covers an area within a 75-mile drive radius of Nyssa, Oregon, and is assessed to be capable of supplying approximately 190,000 wet tonnes of dairy and feedlot manure per year.

An ‘A’ rating under the BDO Zone framework signifies high prospective viability for feedstock supply and infrastructure, combined with low expectations of default risk within the designated zone. Officials noted that dairies and feedlots across Oregon have demonstrated strong willingness to engage with new buyers, particularly given that existing manure markets are often seasonal and prone to saturation. Regulatory priorities aimed at reducing land application of manure, along with established management practices and existing infrastructure, were cited as further factors strengthening the region’s readiness for alternative manure utilisation.

Taylor J. Rembowski, Economic Development Director of Malheur County, said the designation reflects the county’s preparedness for further investment in the bioenergy space. “With reliable feedstock supply and a strong infrastructure foundation already in place, we’re well-positioned to attract new biobased investment and support sustainable growth in the region,” he said.

Jordan Solomon, Chairman of the BDO Zone Initiative, said the rating is grounded in both infrastructure readiness and producer engagement. He said the long-term strength of the local dairy and beef industries, combined with a clear willingness among regional producers to engage new buyers, positions the county well to support new manure-based bio-projects.