Brookston Community Center Biomass Heating Facility Finally Unveiled

BROOKSTON, Minn.– The Fond du Lac Reservation in Brookston is celebrating the completion of its newest biomass heating facility.

The project has been a work in progress since 2011.

And one official told FOX 21, this brought the opportunity to introduce updated technology.

The biomass heating facility is now using woodchips from Fon du Lac Forestry to power its heat.

“Well, when you use biomass, you’re utilizing trees. Well, the forestry department manages that people plant trees. You know, there’s loggers that will cut the trees, and then there will be companies that utilize the lumber. There is, you know, the savings within the community of fuel,” explained Bruno Zagar, the Energy Projects Manager, Fond du Lac Band.

The unique source of energy significantly reduces Co2 emissions. And officials say it saves $38-$50,000 a year.

And from the sounds of it, this method for energy use provides jobs, and is seemingly a win-win for everyone.

“The band is always looking forward to trying to leave the planet better, or at least less impacted than we it was, or when we leave. And I mean, personally leave, the band will always be here,” said Bruce Savage Chairman, Fond du Lac Band.

In the future, they’re hoping to direct that energy towards the electricity for the community center.