Corn Growers Disappointed in RFS Volumes

For Immediate Release

Contact: Lisa Richardson, SDCGA

Phone: (605) 334-0100

Corn Growers Disappointed in RFS Volumes

The following is a statement from 6^th generation South Dakota family farmer Keith Alverson, president of the South Dakota Corn Growers Association, in response to today’s announcement by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) of the renewable volume obligations under the Renewable Fuel Standard.

“While today’s decision from the EPA is an improvement from their original proposal, it ultimately remains a setback to the enormous progress that has been made across rural America on family farms and throughout communities.”

“Americans have invested billions to successfully meet the original levels. We’ve exceeded those goals with the ability to further reduce fuel prices for consumers, carbon emissions and our country’s dangerous dependence on foreign oil.”

“Investments in biofuels are still taking place, but are at risk due to uncertainty from Washington. The opportunity is there if the EPA and President Obama’s administration would allow ethanol to compete beyond the 10% blend wall which has been fiercely protected by BIG OIL.”

“Increases in both corn and ethanol yields and efficiencies have turned the RFS into a cap on what we can produce instead of an incentive to grow America’s renewable fuel sector.”

“In light of the EPA’s decision, we are evaluating our options. We will fight to protect the rights of farmers and consumers and hold the EPA accountable.”

The South Dakota Corn Growers Association, one of the largest commodity groups in the state, promotes corn, represents corn producers on public policy issues and serves as a legislative voice.

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