Ethanol blend ban lifted for eight states

Feb 26, 2024

By Farms.com

The Biden administration announced plans to end the summertime restriction on E15 gasoline blends in eight states from 2025, responding to Midwestern governors' appeals. This ethanol-blended fuel, derived from corn, has been restricted during summer due to smog concerns.

The move aims to bolster the agricultural economy in key states like Minnesota and Wisconsin, while also addressing environmental impact assessments that suggest a neutral to positive effect on air quality.

The decision reflects the administration's commitment to renewable fuels and agricultural prosperity. Ethanol has played a critical role in reducing reliance on oil and cutting back on greenhouse gas emissions. The EPA's studies have indicated that the year-round sale of E15 could slightly reduce emissions contributing to smog, countering the long-held belief that it's environmentally detrimental in warmer seasons.

The ethanol industry and agricultural advocates welcome this change, seeing it as a step forward in promoting sustainable fuels. The delayed implementation has drawn criticism from some sectors, emphasizing the need for immediate action. Meanwhile, oil industry representatives' express concerns over potential impacts on the fuel supply chain.

This policy shift underscores ongoing debates about the role of ethanol in America's energy strategy, balancing economic, environmental, and energy resilience considerations. As the country moves towards more sustainable energy sources, this decision marks a critical point in the dialogue between agricultural interests and environmental stewardship.

Video: Veteran Farmers: A Legacy of Service in Rural America

Veterans Day is a time to honor the men and women who have selflessly protected our freedoms and values. And for some, the transition from military service to civilian life brings them back to the farm.

At Farm Bureau, we believe it’s important to not only celebrate veterans but also those who continue to make a difference in agriculture and their community. We've partnered with Farm Credit to establish the Veteran Farmer Award of Excellence to shine a light on those who have continued to go above and beyond to serve their communities.

This year, we recognize retired Colonel Joe Ricker as the inaugural Veteran Farmer Award of Excellence winner. Joe served over 30 years in the Army before retiring from the Pentagon and completing tours in both Iraq and Afghanistan. Since leaving the Army, his commitment to excellence in farming and enriching the lives of veterans has blossomed in a myriad of ways in both his local community of Wilkinson, Indiana, and across the country. Joe grows apples and raises bees on his farm in Indiana. Joe founded “Veterans IN Farming,” an organization, now with more than 1,100 members, dedicated to providing veterans in Indiana with the tools and training to succeed in agriculture.

The American Farm Bureau Federation is an independent, non-governmental, voluntary organization, comprised of and directed by farm and ranch families who engage in all types of food, fuel and fiber production.