Crapo To Keynote Relay For Life, Discuss Biomass

Washington, D.C. - Promoting health awareness and early testing has always been a high priority for Idaho Senator Mike Crapo, and he will share his personal story as a cancer survivor during opening ceremonies this Friday for the Kootenai County Relay for Life. The Relay is the largest annual event held by the American Cancer Society in north Idaho. Crapo will join area mayors and leaders during the opening ceremonies and discuss his personal triumph over prostate cancer and his advocacy for early screenings and testing to fight cancer.

At a meeting in Bonners Ferry on Saturday, Crapo will bring focus to new biomass legislation he has introduced. He will also highlight the Kootenai Valley Resource Initiative (KVRI) and efforts by the Kootenai Tribe, Boundary County Commissioners, Bonners Ferry, and others to restore the Kootenai White Sturgeon and local burbot populations.

Crapo joined with fellow Idaho Senator Jim Risch and Montana Senators Max Baucus and Jon Tester to introduce legislation aimed at expanding the market for biomass produced from wood and other sources. The legislation would expand how biomass is utilized in agricultural and energy programs offered by federal agencies by applying the same definition between multiple legislative efforts. A consistent definition will prompt investment and technology in the marketplace and provide information for investors. The legislation is welcomed by landowners, timber production companies and forest workers.

Friday, May 21
Post Falls 6:00 p.m. Offers keynote remarks at the Opening Ceremonies for the American Cancer Society's Relay for Life Events, Post Falls Greyhound Park.

Saturday, May 22
Bonners Ferry 12:30 p.m. Meets with Boundary County Commissioners, Bonners Ferry Mayor Dave Anderson and leaders of the Kootenai Tribe to discuss collaborative wildlife recovery and forestry efforts. At the Kootenai River Inn, U.S. Highway 95.