Workers in October put the finishing touches on towering twin silos at Malheur Lumber’s biomass plant.

   The past year has brought continuing economic challenges to the region, state and nation. However, 2010 also saw some developments in Grant County that are worthy of celebration. 

   The new Grant County Regional Airport and Forest Service Airbase opened in the fall, and Ochoco Lumber Companys new biomass plant began production this month at the Malheur Lumber millsite in John Day. These projects have parlayed significant federal and state investment into assets that promise lasting, beneficial impacts for the local community. Offering a platform for related industrial and commercial development, they help to create a springboard to a stronger regional economy.

   At a time when there seems to be no shortage of sobering news about the economy, the Blue Mountain Eagle is pleased to publish BREAKTHROUGH, this special section to commemorate these steps toward a more sustainable future in Grant County.