Minneapolis, June 23 - Thirteen students from New London-Spicer High School visited Chippewa Valley Ethanol Company (CVEC) in Benson yesterday to learn about ethanol production.

 

"We were pleased to welcome New London-Spicer High School to our facility to learn about Minnesota-produced renewable energy. Tours like this are an opportunity for students to learn about the pivotal role science plays in ethanol production," said Chad Friese, CEO of CVEC.

 

During the tour, the students learned several components of ethanol production including incoming grain grading, grain handling, fermentation, grain storage, dried distiller grain production and storage, ethanol storage and shipment.

 

The tour was organized by the Minnesota Bio-Fuels Association. CVEC is a member of the Minnesota Bio-Fuels Association.

 

"Today's tour is the seventh tour we've organized this year and is part of our annual grant program to schools in Minnesota to tour and learn about ethanol production.

 

"The ethanol industry plays a vital role in Minnesota's agriculture industry and through these tours, students are given a chance to see and understand the process of converting a homegrown renewable ingredient into clean energy," said Tim Rudnicki, executive director of the Minnesota Bio-Fuels Association.

 

Jeffery Gabrielson, agriculture instructor at New London-Spicer High School, said the tour demonstrated the limitless potential for agriculture when partnered with science and technology.

 

"I also hope this tour encourages our youth to pursue careers in one of the many facets of agriculture," Gabrielson said.