In California, efforts are being made to transform forest wood waste into sustainable products in order to enhance forest resilience, address wildfire risks, and boost economic growth in rural areas. One key strategy involves utilizing wood waste for bioenergy production, particularly in the form of biomass-derived hydrogen (biohydrogen), as a zero-emission alternative to fossil fuels. The project, led by UC ANR Biomass and Bioenergy Advisor Haris Gilani, aims to repurpose old sawmills into biohydrogen production sites, thereby creating job opportunities and reducing wildfire risk. By converting wood waste into usable products, such as building materials and clean energy, a regional closed-loop system is created, contributing to the low-carbon fuel market and benefiting forested communities. Challenges remain, including inadequate infrastructure for bioenergy production. Gilani's project, funded by CAL FIRE, seeks to establish bioenergy campuses in Fresno and San Bernardino, with the goal of stimulating economic growth and supporting rural economies. By collaborating with stakeholders and partners, the project aims to create a replicable model that can be expanded statewide, supporting landowners and turning wood waste challenges into sustainable opportunities for California.