The Oklahoma House Agriculture Committee held a study on Tuesday examining biochar as a potential solution for the state's invasive eastern red cedar problem. The hearing explored how the trees could be converted into useful products while addressing water loss and wildfire risk.
Eastern red cedars consume enormous amounts of water and fuel wildfires in drought-prone areas, creating public safety and conservation issues, according to Rep. Mike Dobrinski, R-Okeene, who initiated the study. "If we can create value and benefit at the same time, we want to learn all we can about that," Dobrinski said.
Biochar is made when biomass undergoes pyrolysis—a heating process that converts agricultural waste and wood waste into a material with new properties, according to Dr. Lori Han of the University of Oklahoma's School of Civil Engineering and Environmental Science. The material improves soil health, retains water, and can remove pollutants from water. Presenters said it can be used for land restoration and landscaping.
The economic case is significant. Oklahoma already invests in cedar removal through programs including the Terry Peach Water Restoration Act, updated through House Bill 2988 and taking effect Nov. 1. The program has $5 million appropriated and has removed nearly 16,000 acres of red cedars. From 2017 to 2024, the federal government spent approximately $23.6 million in Oklahoma on brush management. Currently, wood from these projects is piled, burned or scattered.
Converting the wood into biochar could offset removal costs through product sales and carbon credits while providing additional benefits such as stormwater and erosion control, according to speakers who presented at the hearing.