Concerns over greenhouse gas emissions and energy security has spurred interest in biofuels. Utilization of crop biomass for production of cellulosic ethanol may provide a renewable energy source for consumers and a new revenue source for farmers. While there are many benefits of biomass utilization, removal of biomass could reduce soil quality and agricultural sustainability. Crop residues protect topsoil from erosion, help maintain soil organic matter, reduce soil moisture loss, and improve soil tilth. We propose that there is an optimal rate of biomass removal based on soil conditions and agricultural management that meets the needs of ethanol production, but will not compromise soil quality. We evaluated biomass removal scenarios using field sampling, field-scale modeling and regional modeling for the area surrounding Imperial, NE. We collected baseline soil samples from farms near Imperial before biomass removal treatments began and will monitor changes in soil carbon over time. Baseline soil samples and farm management information were used to model scenarios of biomass removal at the field-scale. Results show that 40-60% removal will sustain soil organic carbon levels under conventional management and that a switch to no-till may even increase soil organic carbon. Preliminary regional analyses show that at 40-60% removal, roughly 1.7 to 2.6 million tons of corn stover could be harvested for ethanol production in the region around Imperial, NE. Further analyses will examine variability in biomass production by soil types and cropland management practices, as well as determine effects on soil carbon for this region.