(KLZA)-- The Falls City Economic Development and Growth Enterprise, Ecostrat and the BDO Zone Initiative have announced the issue of an investment grade BDO Zone "A" Rating for Falls City.

A BDO Zone is a Bioeconomy Development Opportunity Zone, which certifies a regional readiness for bio-manufacturing. The "A" rating denotes high prospective viability of Feedstock Supply and Infrastructure and low expectations of default risk in the zone.

Falls City- BDO Zone rating for 600,000 bone dry tons per year of corn stover is the first rating in the state of Nebraska and extends a 75-mile drive-distance from the center point in Falls City.

Corn stover is the plant material left in the field after corn is harvested including leaves, stalks, husks and cobs.

The capacity to support new biobased plant operations is considered strong, with the region featuring high crop yields that guarantee a reliable feedstock supply and a lack of competing bio-projects in the competition zone.

Local farmers and agricultural companies are experienced in bale logistics, production, storage, and transport, enhancing operational efficiency.

The Mid-America Rail Campus offers rail access, open zoning, and strong government support for infrastructure upgrades, making Falls City an ideal location for biomass-based projects.

The importance of BDO Zone ratings has been recently highlighted by Citroniq Chemicals LLC's decision to select Falls City for the world's largest decarbonized plastics production facility.

Falls City EDGE Executive Director Lucas Froeschl says the 'A' rating confirms Richardson County, as the home of consistent and productive corn yields and adds value to the agriculture industry that drives our local economy.

Falls City- Mid-America Rail Campus is positioned to lead the way for bioeconomy investments to support the local family farms, create careers and prosperity for working families, and capitalize on the areas land, rail, river, and air transportation assets.

Froeschl said "Falls City EDGE welcomes discussions with those in the bioenergy, biochemical, and bioproducts market ready for production facility construction to meet customer demand and goals.”

Jordan Solomon, Chairman of the BDO Zone Initiative, stated, “The Falls City BDO Zone 'A' rating highlights Nebraska's significant potential in the bioeconomy sector. He said

this designation not only showcases the region's abundant corn stover resources but also underscores its robust infrastructure and strong agricultural expertise.