Mesa County, Colorado, supports feasibility study for SAF production on Western Slope

From left, Bobbie Daniel, board chair of the Mesa County commissioners, and Cody Davis, commissioner. (Photo: Mesa County)

Commissioners in Mesa County, Colorado, are interested in learning more about the development of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) on the Western Slope.

To that end, they approved a letter of support for a feasibility study to be submitted to the Colorado Department of Local Affairs. 

In collaboration with Pitkin County, Mesa County supports a feasibility study establishing SAF production facilities closer to Western Slope airports.

These facilities would serve several regional airports, including the Aspen-Pitkin County Airport, Eagle County Regional Airport, Grand Junction Regional Airport, and Rifle Garfield County Airport.

The feasibility study will assess the availability of feedstock, biosolids, beetle kill and agricultural waste, along with market conditions, production capacity, location suitability, infrastructure, environmental and economic impacts, and regulatory factors.

It will also identify regional partnerships for advancing SAF on the Western Slope by determining permitting needs, guiding project management and creating a community-benefits plan to maximize workforce opportunities, environmental innovation and economic gains for surrounding communities.

“This feasibility study has diverse potential for our community to prosper,” said Bobbie Daniel, board chair of the Mesa County commissioners. “This project aligns organically with our ongoing initiatives, such as the ​AgriWest and Circular Economy Development Center efforts in the Grand Valley. It touches on multiple aspects of what we are already doing in Mesa County, from economic development to infrastructure and transportation needs. I’m eager to see the market-study results and how they’ll highlight the benefits of this project for our region.”

Mesa County said it is committed to supporting initiatives that enhance regional infrastructure and promote sustainable development.

By backing this feasibility study with a $50,000 contribution and staff assistance, the county aims to contribute to the potential viability of SAF production.

“Mesa County is rich in potential resources for future aviation fuels, whether it’s biofuels or biosolids from the Persigo Plant, methane produced at the landfill, or even overgrowth in our forests,” said Cody Davis, a Mesa County commissioner. “We have a unique opportunity to contribute to sustainable aviation by recycling our available materials. By participating in this study, we’re eager to explore if it’s feasible for Mesa County to be part of this approach to fuel production.”

The letter of support can be read here.