Sac Economic & Tourism Development Ltd. (SETD), Ecostrat, and the BDO Zone Initiative have announced that Sac County, Iowa, has received an investment-grade BDO Zone ‘A’ Rating. This designation highlights the area’s potential for biobased plant operations.
The BDO Zone is capable of supporting 824,000 bone-dry tons of corn stover annually. It extends within a 75-mile radius from Sac City, IA.
The ‘A’ rating reflects high viability for supporting new biobased facilities, indicated by low risks associated with Feedstock Supply and Infrastructure in the Zone. Sac County is located in one of the nation’s highest corn-producing regions, with average yields surpassing 190 bushels per acre. This ensures a consistent availability of corn stover.
Currently, large-scale harvesting of corn stover is limited, and there is no significant industrial competition for this feedstock. However, there is strong farmer interest in supply contracts, suggesting considerable potential for scaling collection efforts.
A 90-acre greenfield site within Sac County’s industrial park has been identified as an ideal location for bio-industries. This site is supported by robust infrastructure, efficient logistics, a favorable business environment, and competitive living costs.
Brandy Wilson, representing Sac Economic & Tourism Development, emphasized the commitment to partnering with biobased companies. “Our goal is to unlock the full value of our corn stover resources,” she stated.
Wilson mentioned the area’s history of collaborating with biobased businesses, which includes a biodiesel facility in Wall Lake, IA, and plans for another near Odebolt.
Jordan Solomon, Chairman of the BDO Zone Initiative, noted that Sac County’s ‘A’ rating reinforces Iowa’s status as a key player in agricultural biomass. He stated, “The combination of abundant corn stover and existing infrastructure makes this region particularly attractive for biobased developers.”
This announcement reflects ongoing efforts to promote sustainable agricultural practices and enhance the bioeconomy in Sac County.
