Stay Curious. Stay Connected.
MailNewsletters♡Donate Now
Sign up
*Password must be at least 8 characters and contain one uppercase letter, one lowercase letter, one number and one symbol.
Already have an account?
By submitting, you consent that you are at least 18 years of age and to receive information about MPR's or APMG entities' programs and offerings. The personally identifying information you provide will not be sold, shared, or used for purposes other than to communicate with you about MPR, APMG entities, and its sponsors. You may opt-out at any time clicking the unsubscribe link at the bottom of any email communication. View our Privacy Policy.
Sign in to your profile
Forgot Password?
New to MPR News?
Welcome back
to news
for you
Reset Password

Enter the username on file and we'll send you a code to reset your password.

Still require assistance or not sure what your User Name is?
Welcome back
to news
for you
Email Verification

A verification code has been emailed to

Still awaiting the code?
Mark Steil
Worthington, Minn.

Feds to boost spending on ethanol production

Go Deeper.

Create an account or log in to save stories.

Log inCreate a free Account

Like this?

Thanks for liking this story! We have added it to a list of your favorite stories.

Show me!

The U.S. Agriculture Department will commit hundreds of millions more dollars to boost biofuels production, including ethanol. The announcement could mean big investments in Minnesota, which ranks fourth in ethanol production.

USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack says in the next couple of months he'll announce plans for his department to help pay for construction of five new biofuel plants across the country.

The USDA will also help install 10,000 ethanol blend pumps at gas stations over the next five years. Vilsack says he wants his department to help develop biofuels for jet airplane engines. He says the efforts will help build the nation's renewable energy industry.

"There needs to be a significant statement of committment," said Vilsack. "That's what we're trying to convey today, this administration is committed."

Vilsack says the USDA is also encouraging farmers to grow crops and trees that can provide raw material for the production of cellulosic ethanol.

Congress has mandated that national biofuels production increase to 36 billion gallons in 12 years, triple the current numbers.