Mascoma continues with plans for Vonore biofuel plant

By: Melissa Kinton -- The Advocate and Democrat

SWEETWATER, TN -- County Mayor Allan Watson said on Friday the county has completed some grading work and reproportioning of the property as requested by the biofuel refinery.

The University of Tennessee Office of Bioenergy Programs has already begun contracting with local farmers to grow switchgrass this summer. Dr. Kelly Tiller, Director of External Operations, UT Office of Bioenergy Programs, said on Friday that the university and biorefinery are taking their time with planning and negotiations to "get everything right."

"We only have one shot at this," she said. Tiller said she did not expect the plant to be open by the end of 2008. Some controversy has surrounded the building of the plant. At a public meeting in August, residents questioned plant emissions and the effects the plant would have on the environment.

Mascoma executives said at the meeting that there would be no foul smell emitted from the facility. The company expects to go through a lot of water though, and has worked with Tellico Area Services System to prepare for an increase in water both coming in and going out of the plant.

Since there will not be enough switchgrass to keep the plant running during its first year of operation, the plant will use wood chips made from local trees. Some residents questioned the effects this would have on scenic views, forests and streams. The University of Tennessee created a publication called, "Biomass harvesting and forest stewardship: a healthy balance," in which it addresses concerns about clear cutting forests.

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