<p>The objective of this study is to examine how regional differences in biomass quality and supply systems influence the role of forest biomass in reducing U.S. carbon intensity and to identify policy pathways that can enhance its effectiveness. Forest biomass has the potential to play a larger role in the U.S. transition to clean energy, but its effectiveness depends on fuel quality, supply chain resilience, and regional differences. This study evaluates biomass availability and performance across the East, South, and West, and identifies the main factors that shape production outcomes using analysis of variance and ordinary least squares. Results show that the South faces quality challenges due to higher moisture and ash levels, while the West holds a comparative advantage with cleaner, higher-energy feedstocks. The East produces the most significant volumes, but storage and distribution bottlenecks limit efficiency. Across all regions, reducing fuel moisture is the most effective way to increase production. Based on these findings, we propose a set of regionally tailored and nationally coordinated policy strategies: expanding the use of drying and torrefaction to improve fuel quality, strengthening storage and forecasting systems to reduce supply chain inefficiencies, and creating incentives for high-quality biomass in the marketplace. These actions would improve the reliability and competitiveness of forest biomass, lower carbon intensity, and support U.S. climate and energy goals.</p>