Feasibility of Energy Crops Grown on Army Lands
Abstract
This collaborative study by The Louis Berger Group, Inc. and Utah State University demonstrates that land managed by the military could become a significant asset in biofuel production. The viability of renewable oils as a significant fuel source for the U.S. Army (Army) is limited by the availability of feedstocks-a limitation related to the availability of land on which to grow energy crops without impacting food supplies or requiring land use changes. Approximately 1% of Army lands assessed were found compatible with energy crop production. Assuming that the studied sites are typical of Army lands, approximately 150,000 acres of the Army's 15 million acres are compatible with energy crop production. Based on an expected yield per acre of more than 80 gallons, Army lands could potentially yield 12 million gallons of 100% biodiesel per year and replace 20% of its current petroleum diesel consumption with a B20 blend. Growth, harvest, transportation, and storage of these feedstocks could be executed through public-private partnerships. Implementation of this program should be rapid (within 2-4 years) because conventional farming equipment and agricultural practices can be used.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 01, 2012
- Accession Number
- ADA559200
Entities
Organizations
- Engineer Research and Development Center