EPA Biofuel Rule Boosts Farmer Demand

Mar 30, 2026
By Farms.com

New biofuel targets support corn soybean markets and rural income growth

As reported in the article: EPA Sets Record Renewable Fuel Targets, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has finalized the Renewable Fuel Standard “Set 2” rule, which outlines renewable fuel volume requirements for the years 2026 and 2027. This decision is being welcomed by farm leaders as a positive step for the agriculture sector.

National Farmers Union President Rob Larew expressed appreciation for the updated Renewable Volume Obligations. He highlighted that the increased targets for biodiesel and renewable diesel will create strong demand in the marketplace. This is expected to benefit family farmers and ranchers across the country.

The new policy comes at a time when farmers are facing economic challenges. Rising production costs and uncertain market conditions have created financial pressure. In such a situation, stronger domestic demand plays an important role in supporting agricultural income.

Higher biofuel blending requirements will directly increase the need for crops like corn and soybeans. These crops are widely used in biofuel production. As demand grows, farmers may see better prices and improved market opportunities. This can help stabilize farm income and strengthen rural communities.

Another key point in the policy is the focus on using domestically produced feedstocks. This ensures that American-grown crops remain central to biofuel production. By prioritizing local resources, the policy supports national agriculture and keeps economic benefits within the country.

“We thank EPA for finalizing updated Renewable Volume Obligations under the RFS. These increased targets for biodiesel and renewable diesel send a strong signal to the marketplace and create meaningful new demand for America’s family farmers and ranchers,” said National Farmers Union (NFU) President Rob Larew.

Looking ahead, farm organizations plan to continue working with policymakers and the EPA. Their goal is to ensure long-term growth and stability in renewable fuel markets. A steady and supportive policy environment will help farmers plan and remain competitive.

Overall, the updated Renewable Fuel Standard is seen as an important move toward strengthening agriculture, supporting farmers, and promoting sustainable energy production.

Photo Credit: pixabay-franck-barske

Video: Why Invest in Canada’s Seed Future? | On The Brink: Episode 3

Darcy Unger just invested millions to build a brand-new seed plant on his farm in Stonewall, Manitoba so when it’s time for his sons to take over, they have the tools they need to succeed.

Right now, 95% of the genetics they’ll be growing come from Canadian plant breeders.

That number matters.

When fusarium hit Western Canada in the late 90s, it was Canadian breeders who responded, because they understood Canadian conditions. That ability to react quickly to what’s happening on Canadian farms is exactly what’s at risk when breeding programs lose funding.

For farmers like Darcy, who have made generational investments based on the assumption that better genetics will keep coming, the stakes are direct and personal.

We’re on the brink of decisions that will shape our agricultural future for not only our generation, but also the ones to come.

What direction will we choose?

On The Brink is a year-long video series traveling across Canada to meet the researchers, breeders, farmers, seed companies, and policymakers shaping the future of Canadian plant breeding. Each week, a new story. Each story, a piece of the bigger picture.

Episode 3 is above. Follow Seed World Canada to catch every episode, and tell us: Do you think the next generation will have the tools they need to success when they takeover? How is the future going to look?