Osceola Sentinel-Tribune: Letter to the Editor

President Trump has made clear he is committed to finally making year-round E15 a reality. E15 is a biofuel mix made with 15 percent ethanol. Unlocking E15 will deliver a much-needed jolt to rural economies throughout Iowa.

For some years in the 1980s I helped design and oversee the development of a number of early ethanol plants. I know firsthand how homegrown biofuels can greatly benefit rural economies. This industry provides jobs, and drives demand for Iowa corn. One thing to keep in mind is that the production facilities have a co-product -- distillers grain -- that is highly valuable in the feeding of livestock and reduces the cost of our beef, pork and poultry. The corn is pre-digested in the fermentation process, with 19 pounds of distillers grain replacing 56 pounds of raw corn. So one added benefit is that there is less manure to spread! And are NOT using food for fuel!

Also, when one looks it up it will be seen that it is certified that ethanol added to gasoline as an octane enhancer has kept gasoline prices at least 30 cents per gallon lower over the past decade while improving our air quality. And my experience is that I get increased MPG with an ethanol blend as opposed to regular gasoline. Check your mileage out for yourself.  

I’m thankful we have leaders such as Senator Ernst and Senator Grassley who are fighting for Iowa grown renewable fuels and improved livestock feeds. While President Trump has signaled the summertime sales restriction will be lifted, it’s urgent our leaders in Washington continue working with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the administration to swiftly implement year-round E15.