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Ore. study shows downside to burning biomass
Posted by Oregonian: Eric Mortenson on October 23rd, 2011
Oregonian: Oregon's blue-sky thinking on alternative energy envisions the state's forests as a terrific source of biomass. Woody debris from thinning, brush clearing and removing dead trees could generate electricity, heat manufacturing plants and be turned into biofuels.
Better yet, the thinking goes, such work could restore forest health and provide jobs in rural communities in addition to helping the state meet its renewable energy goals. The Oregon Forest Resources Institute calls it the "woody biomass...
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Research suggests Pacific Northwest forests might not be as healthy as they look
Posted by Oregonian: Eric Mortenson on October 4th, 2011
Oregonian: Pacific Northwest forests may look healthy, but their ability to sequester carbon, filter water and shelter wildlife may be declining, according to researchers at Oregon State University and the University of Washington.
In articles published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, researchers said forests may be losing ecological, economic or cultural values beneath a "veneer" of health.
Traditional forest management practices such as timber production, clear-cutting and replanting...
United States: Raise a glass – while it’s still full – to Portland’s abundant water, law professor says
Posted by Oregonian: Eric Mortenson on December 4th, 2010
Oregonian: Given western Oregon's infamous rain and big rivers, we may take water for granted.
"We do so at our peril," said Janet Neuman, a Lewis & Clark College law professor and expert on water rights.
Share Tweet 7 Comments Speaking Friday at the Portland City Club's weekly public affairs forum, Neuman said there's much to consider when we absent-mindedly fill the glass, flush the toilet and water the roses.
An increasing population and specialized high-tech industries demand more water,...