In a recent public hearing, the Scotts Valley Energy Corporation presented plans for a major use permit and mitigated negative declaration for a new ag forest wood processing bioenergy facility in Upper Lake. The proposed site, located at 755 East State Highway 20, is intended to support local energy needs while addressing wildfire risks through forest fuel reduction.

Senior planner Laura Hall outlined the project, clarifying that the correct parcel number is APN 004-01004, after initial confusion regarding the agenda. The facility aims to utilize wood biomass, primarily sourced from a nearby site that previously participated in a PG&E fire recovery project. However, it was noted that this site is no longer an active wood processing facility, and the wood chips available there are limited.

The project is designed to comply with several state plans, including California's Wildfire and Forest Resilient Action Plan and the 2022 scoping plan for carbon neutrality. It is expected to create three to four local jobs and will adhere to Lake County zoning ordinances, ensuring a setback of 1,000 feet from the highway.

Despite potential environmental impacts identified in the initial study—ranging from air quality to cultural resources—project proponents assert that mitigation measures will reduce these impacts to less than significant levels. The facility is also set to restore the site to its natural state after its operational life, with the exception of a large water tank foundation.

The hearing highlighted the community's interest in balancing energy production with environmental stewardship, as local officials and residents weigh the benefits of bioenergy against the preservation of prime farmland and ecological resources. Further discussions and evaluations will continue as the project moves through the permitting process.