Lamberton, Nov 8 – Twenty-three students from Sleepy Eye High School toured Highwater Ethanol today to get a closer look at clean renewable energy production.

During the tour, the students learned about the various processes of ethanol production at Highwater Ethanol, which delivered 59.42 million gallons of ethanol in 2015.

“The opportunity to host Sleepy High School for this tour was a great opportunity for the students as well as Highwater Ethanol employees. By sharing our knowledge of the ethanol and agriculture industry, we hope to have an impact on these students as they plan on furthering their education and identifying a career path,” said Brian Kletscher, CEO of Highwater Ethanol.

The students, from grades 10 to 12, toured the plant’s administrative office, water treatment process, incoming grain grading, and handling, ethanol loadout, ethanol process facility, energy center, dried distiller grain production and storage.

“We informed the students of the different job opportunities available in the ethanol industry and related agricultural industry as well as the importance of maintaining a positive attitude as you work with individuals throughout your life,” Kletscher said.

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

“It’s important for students to learn about clean, Minnesota-produced, renewable energy and how it reduces harmful emissions and supports the local economy,” said Tim Rudnicki, executive director of the Minnesota Bio-Fuels Association.

Mary Hoffmann, an agriculture education teacher from Sleepy Eye High School, accompanied her students on the tour.

“I think it is important to see what businesses are thriving in our nearby communities as well as see a renewable energy operation in place,” she said.

Hoffmann added the school’s syllabus for agricultural education includes a Natural Resources Class that discusses renewable and alternative energy sources.