EPA Attempt To Get Ethanol Back On Track Falls Short

(JEFFERSON CITY, Mo.)–Missouri Corn Growers Association (MCGA) President Morris Heitman released a statement today following the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) release of finalized Renewable Volume Obligation numbers for 2014, 2015 and 2016. Although the numbers were increased from May, today’s announcement still falls short of the statutory levels.

“The increase in renewable fuel levels show EPA heard corn farmers and reaffirms ethanol production is vital to rural America. However, we strongly believe EPA should be required to follow the law and uphold the full statutory levels intended by Congress. Anything else is a win for the oil industry at the expense of family farmers and consumers.

“The Renewable Fuel Standard works. It has allowed our country to become more energy independent, revitalized rural economies and provides consumers with a cleaner burning alternative to gasoline.

“Farmers are doing their part. There is no reasonable explanation or legal justification to reduce renewable fuel use – except to say EPA and the Obama Administration have once again bowed to the oil industry. Consumers, the economy and our environment will pay the price.

“Throughout this drawn-out process, corn growers have reached out time and time again to the EPA, elected officials and the White House. We will explore all avenues so EPA is forced to follow the statute set by Congress and restore the 2014-16 corn ethanol volume to intended levels.”