Over two decades of research on woody crops in New York, combined with growing concern about environmental issues, prompted the formation of the Salix Consortium in 1993. Over 20 organizations have pooled their resources and talents to facilitate the commercial development of willow biomass crops. These crops are a locally grown source of renewable energy and cellulose feedstock that will produce multiple benefits for the Northeastern and Midwest regions of the United States. SUNY-ESF, and other Salix Consortium partners, continues to develop and expand a strong applied research program, which underpins the commercialization effort. Research focuses on both optimizing the production system, quantifying environmental benefits associated with willow biomass crops, and exploring both bioenergy and bioproducts markets.

Over 240 hectares of willow biomass crops have been established in New York. Regional trials have been established in nine different states and Quebec. Annual planting stock production has reached almost 1.5 million cuttings. The Step planter from Sweden has increased planting efficiency by 400%. Harvesting trials are planned for the winter of 2001/2002. The first commercial harvests are also scheduled for winter of 2001/2002.

The near term use for the harvested willow biomass crops is co-firing with coal. The Dunkirk power plant (NRG Inc.) will initiate tests with both wood residues and willow biomass in 2002. Continuing research gains, reductions in production costs, and quantification of environmental benefits in combination with supportive state and national governments, will be essential to making a commercial willow biomass enterprise successful.