Colorado counties to explore SAF potential
Two of Colorado state counties, Mesa and Pitkin, have announced their support for feasibility studies to explore the development of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF).
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.
Mesa County said that it is interested in learning more about the development of 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 (DOLA).
It further said that, in collaboration with Pitkin County, it 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.
“This feasibility study has diverse potential for our community to prosper,” said Bobbie Daniel, chair of the board of 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 that 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.
Earlier last year, Avfuel and FBO company Atlantic Aviation joined hands to make SAF available at four of Atlantic Aviation’s Colorado locations.