Ferndale School District Biodiesel Program

In early 2005, Transportation Director Darrell Clute began researching the possibility of using biodiesel in the buses of the Ferndale School District.  He called several diesel engine manufacturers and was assured that his vehicles’ warranties would not be voided unless it could be proven that problems had been a result of the biodiesel.
After finding no legitimate drawback or reason to avoid using biodiesel in Ferndale’s fleet, he committed to a pilot program in 2006.  With the help of a grant from the Northwest Clean Air Agency, the buses in the Summer Program would be fueled by B100, a 99 percent mix of biodiesel to regular diesel.  He chose summertime for the pilot because warm temperatures would prevent gelling difficulties with the fuel.... (More)

Biodiesel for City of Bellingham Fleet Vehicles

The City of Bellingham is taking steps to reduce the environmental impacts of its fleet vehicles and gasoline-powered equipment by adopting an alternative fuel. A 5% mixture of biodiesel is now available at the Public Work Fleet Shop on Pacific Street and at their fuel supplier’s pumps. The City's use of biodiesel is one of the many efforts the City is taking to reach the target of reducing carbon emissions by 64% from 2000 levels by 2012 and by 70% by 2020. Bellingham has 119 diesel powered vehicles and/or equipment in its fleet.... (More)

Moving Forward...

Whatcom County plans on adopting a 20% biodiesel fuel mixture for all County fleet vehicles this fall. Check back here soon for more details.