Survey crews have begun geotechnical work for a proposed $62 million bioenergy plant planned for Trion’s industrial park, marking the first visible activity associated with the project.

The Trion Town Council approved the survey work during its meeting last week, granting Kanadevia Inova USA LLC permission to conduct testing on the approximately 50-acre tract that the Town of Trion has agreed to sell to Johnson Energy Solutions Inc. for $500,000.

The proposed facility would convert chicken litter into renewable natural gas, a process supporters say could help reduce reliance on fossil fuels while improving nutrient management in agricultural operations.

According to project documents, survey crews are expected to complete their work before July 15. The geotechnical investigation will include collecting and testing soil samples and evaluating groundwater conditions to help determine foundation requirements for the proposed facility.

At least 39 borings are expected to be drilled across the property to depths ranging from 25 to 50 feet, or until refusal. Because portions of the site are heavily wooded, some paths will be cleared to allow crews access to drilling locations. Any removed vegetation will remain on-site and be placed so it is not visible from public roadways.

Officials say the testing is a standard step for large industrial projects and is designed to determine whether the site can support the equipment, pipelines, and processing structures required for the facility.

If constructed, Johnson Energy Solutions estimates the plant would create approximately 25 jobs, with salaries averaging around $60,000 annually.

Project supporters say potential benefits could include reducing dependence on fossil fuels, improving water quality through better nutrient management, and providing poultry producers with a sustainable outlet for chicken litter.

The project remains in the planning stages and will be subject to additional reviews and approvals before construction can begin.