Wisconsin lawmakers have introduced the Forestry Revitalization Act, a proposal that would provide more than $210 million in incentives to attract an aviation biofuel plant to Hayward.
The measure is designed to strengthen the state’s $42-billion forestry sector and create new jobs in northern communities.
The legislation, introduced by Senate President Mary Felzkowski (R-Tomahawk) and Rep. Chanz Green (R-Grand View), outlines a package that includes a $60 million aviation biofuel production tax credit and a $150 million grant through state bonding. In return, the company behind the project would commit to sourcing 80% of its feedstock from Wisconsin forests and investing $1.5 billion in the state within five years .
The plant would convert low-quality wood into sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), a product expected to see growing demand as the European Union requires 70% of jet fuel to be sustainable by 2050. Proponents estimate the facility would create about 150 jobs.
“This legislation positions Wisconsin at the forefront of renewable aviation fuel,” Felzkowski said, noting that neighboring states Michigan and Minnesota are also vying for the project .
Industry leaders argue the project would support both the environment and the economy. Henry Schienebeck, executive director of the Great Lakes Timber Professionals Association, emphasized the importance of maintaining sustainable harvesting to keep forests healthy and communities resilient .
What’s official and what’s proposed
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Confirmed: A press release from Felzkowski and Green announced the Forestry Revitalization Act; bill texts SB 284 and AB 222 also propose statewide SAF production tax credits .
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Proposed but not finalized: The $150 million bonding plan and the Hayward site location are detailed in lawmakers’ announcement and media reports but are not yet codified in final bill language.
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Pending: Governor Tony Evers has expressed interest but has not yet committed to backing the proposal .
If approved, Wisconsin could become the home of one of the nation’s first large-scale aviation biofuel facilities — an initiative seen by supporters as both an economic and environmental “win-win.”
