Michigan forests have been growing in volume since at least 1935; for that reason, it is important to ensure that needs for fuel can be met without compromising the many other benefits provided by these forests.

With this in mind, researchers are examining the issue of sustainable wood production from many angles. Some of this research focuses on how to productively grow tree crops that can help supply material for fuel. Other aspects focus on areas where wood surpluses currently exist in Michigan and how those might help fulfill a demand for woody biomass. Together, this research can help to address concerns of how wood-based biofuels can be produced without negatively affecting the environment or decreasing the supply of wood for other uses.