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North San Joaquin Valley, California

The North San Joaquin Valley, California BDO Zone for Woody Biomass is rated ‘AA’.

Rating Issue Date: December 14, 2023.

‘AA’ ratings denote very high prospective viability of Feedstock Supply and Infrastructure and very low expectations of default risk in the Zone. They indicate very strong ongoing capacity of the region to support new biobased plant operations. This capacity is not significantly vulnerable to foreseeable events.

BDO Zone Rating

AA

North San Joaquin Valley, California BDO Zone Overview

Feedstock quantities are expressed in green tons per year (gt/yr), while feedstock costs are expressed in USD ($). Maximum transport distance is based on a 75-mile driving distance from the center point (Modesto, CA).

BDO Zone Assets:
  • Nearly 900,000 tons of underutilized woody biomass from orchard recycling at low risk
  • Long-standing industry with 6,300 Nut Tree growers/suppliers in the BDO Zone
  • Well established processors’ network to separate nuts from biomass shells and hulls
  • The majority of feedstock is available for only the cost of transportation
  • Local demand for available residuals continues to go down, opening opportunities for new bioeconomy industries
  • Selected site for bio-project development has flexible zoning, access to natural gas, rail and near extensive highway system
BDO Zone Liabilities:
  • Challenging permitting process for new bio-economy industries in California
  • Normal Weather Risks for Agricultural-based feedstock
  • Higher prices of energy (natural gas, electricity and diesel) compared to the average national figures

Infrastructure

The Beard Industrial District is an example of a site within the BDO Zone located 10 miles south and east of Modesto, CA. It is an ideal location for bioeconomy development, with its varied land options and strategic positioning in the Central Valley of California. All land within the Beard Industrial District is owned by Beard Land Development. Leasing terms are available but no outright purchases.


1) Ample Land Options: The Beard Industrial District offers approximately 2000 acres of land that is specifically zoned and developed for commercial and industrial uses. This extensive land availability provides businesses with a range of options for establishing their bioeconomy projects.


2) Fully Developed Parcels: The district features fully developed parcels, some of which can accommodate up to 100 acres. These parcels come with existing infrastructure, including utilities and road access, enabling businesses to quickly set up their operations and minimize initial construction time and costs.


3) Undeveloped Plots: In addition to the fully developed parcels, the Beard Industrial District also offers undeveloped plots on the outer expanses. This provides businesses with the flexibility to design and construct customized facilities that meet their specific needs. It also allows for potential future expansion and growth as the bioeconomy sector evolves.


4) Transportation Access: Transportation Access: The district benefits from convenient access to major transportation routes and markets. The Modesto and Empire Traction Company, an internal short-line railroad, serves the district, connecting tenants to Union Pacific and BNSF lines. Additionally, the proximity to highways, the Modesto City-County Airport, and the nearby Port of Stockton ensures efficient logistics and access to broader markets for businesses operating
in the area.

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Contact Info

Ryan Magwood

Ryan Magwood

Head of Business Development

BDO Zone Initiative

ryan@bdozone.org

647-962-3286

Neal Best

Neal Best

VP Business & Economic Development

BEAM Circular

neal@beamcircular.org

415-218-6457

Local grants and Incentives

The North San Joaquin Valley region is launching a variety of targeted incentives, grants, and support programs for bioeconomy projects through public-private partnerships facilitated by BEAM Circular. More information is available at: www.beamcircular.org


General information on local incentives is available at: www.opportunitystanislaus.com/incentives


A wide variety of State of California programs are also available to support bioeconomy project development in this region. More information is available at: www.business.ca.gov/advantages/incentives-grants-and-financing/

BDO Zone Connect Webinar