2023 - Ethanol's strong impact on economy and jobs

Feb 20, 2024

By Farms.com

The ethanol industry in 2023 stood out as a pivotal economic and environmental contributor in the United States. Directly employing over 72,400 people, with an additional 322,000 jobs influenced indirectly, the sector underscored its integral role in the national employment landscape.

Generating a substantial $32.5 billion in household income and contributing over $54.2 billion to the GDP, the industry's economic impact was profound. This activity also translated into significant tax revenue, approximately $10.4 billion, benefiting federal, state, and local governments.

With the industry achieving stability post-2022's inflation and energy challenges, it embarked on a trajectory of expansion and stability.

Investment in production inputs reached nearly $39 billion, with corn procurement alone nearing $32 billion, indicating the industry's significant support for agriculture and rural communities. Particularly in Iowa, the ethanol industry's influence was remarkable, supporting over 100,000 jobs and showcasing the sector's deep roots in local economies.

Looking forward, the industry's dedication to innovation and market expansion promises further economic and environmental benefits.

By embracing new technologies and markets, the ethanol sector is set to continue its role as a pioneer in green job creation and a leader in reducing greenhouse gas emissions. This forward momentum solidifies the ethanol industry's position as a key player in America's sustainable future and economic resilience.

Video: Dicamba Returns for Georgia Farmers: What the New EPA Ruling Means for Cotton Growers

After being unavailable in 2024 due to registration issues, dicamba products are returning for Georgia farmers this growing season — but under strict new conditions.

In this report from Tifton, Extension Weed Specialist Stanley Culpepper explains the updated EPA ruling, including new application limits, mandatory training requirements, and the need for a restricted use pesticide license. Among the key changes: a cap of two ½-pound applications per year and the required use of an approved volatility reduction agent with every application.

For Georgia cotton producers, the ruling is significant. According to Taylor Sills with the Georgia Cotton Commission, the vast majority of cotton planted in the state carries the dicamba-tolerant trait — meaning farmers had been paying for technology they couldn’t use.

While environmental groups have expressed concerns over spray drift, Georgia growers have reduced off-target pesticide movement by more than 91% over the past decade. Still, this two-year registration period will come with increased scrutiny, making stewardship and compliance more important than ever.