BTEC Launches Associate Network to Improve Informational Exchange with Industry

New Associate membership connects government agencies and educational institutions to BTEC's industry members and resources

The Biomass Thermal Energy Council (BTEC) has announced the launch of its new Associate class, a complimentary membership level for recognized educational institutions and government agencies.

"This Associate class addresses the need of government agencies and universities to engage our industry on key issues," said Joseph Seymour, BTEC executive director, "while avoiding the hurdles these groups are facing in times of shrinking budgets."

Associate status in BTEC allows qualifying organizations to receive all informational updates and participate in all membership activities, but excludes them from taking part in the policy activities and leadership of the organization, such as election of the Board, running for Board seats, or chairing a committee. However, Associates may receive full membership benefits by upgrading to the non-profit level.

BTEC's Associate network currently features 16 organizations:
Arizona State Forestry
Bureau of Land Management
Bureau of Land Management - Alaska
Colorado State Forest Service
Fleming College
Maryland Department of Natural Resources - Forest Service
Massachusetts Department of Conservation & Recreation
Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation
Nez Perce Tribe
University of Alaska Fairbanks - Cooperative Extension Services
University of Idaho Extension Forestry
University of Idaho Natural Resource Policy Analysis Group
U.S. Department of Energy
USDA Forest Service, Northeastern Area State and Private Forestry
USDA Forest Service, Northern Research Station
Western Illinois University
Three universities are among BTEC's 104 full members:
State University of New York - College of Environmental Science and Forestry
University of Minnesota Duluth, Natural Resources Research Institute
University of Minnesota Morris
"We're hoping to continue to expand this network and work with the agencies and universities to elevate the prominence of renewable heating and cooling with local resources in their state," Seymour added.

Organizations interested in becoming an Associate can join BTEC here.