Reed Canary Grass Pellets

Based on the increasing interest in alternative energy sources, we have recently looked at the potential for using reed canary grass as a source of heating fuel. Reed canary grass is an abundant, non-native species in Michigan’s Eastern Upper Peninsula (EUP). Widely considered a nuisance species, it is not preferred forage for livestock nor is it preferred by wildlife. It is, however, being used as a heating fuel in Scandinavia and tests of this grass species are ongoing at Cornell University as well as in Canada.

Reed canary grass is harvested annually in spring. Its dry yield varies between 5 to 12 tons per hectare with a moisture content of between 10 and 15 percent. The plant is advantageous in that it can grow in the same location for several years without the need for rotation, and does so without the need of extensive amounts of water and fertilizer. Harvested reed canary grass is baled for more convenient transport, although the baled straw must be stored in a way to avoid gathering moisture.

The two successful recipes were:

• 5 gallon bucket of uncompressed ground reed canary grass (about 2.3 kg), 1.5 L of ground corrugated cardboard, 200 mL of used frier oil, 400 mL of water.
• 5 gallon bucket of uncompressed, ground reed canary grass (about 2.3 kg), 800 mL of wet, spent brewer’s grain.

The material was then run through the pellet mill machines, both flat plate pellet mill and ring die pellet mill is available.

E-mail: info@pelletmillshop.com

Our office staff is available to answer your questions, Monday through Friday, from 8:00 to 4pm (CST)