LAND AVAILABLE FOR BIOMASS CROP PRODUCTION IN HAWAII

A geographical information system is being used to facilitate the eval uation of land available for consideration as biomass production areas in Hawaii. The method developed by the authors to assess land availab ility was tested previously in a case study of the island of Molokai. This paper extends the analysis to the islands of Hawaii, Kauai, Maui and Molokai. The results are applicable to private landowners, governm ent officials, and others involved in land-use decisions on the potent ial of biomass crops. The concept of establishing a state-wide. 'Strat egic Biomass Reserve' of dedicated energy plantations to offset interr uptions in imported oil supply is proposed.