Janesville, May 11 - Sixteen students from St Peter Public Schools toured Guardian Energy yesterday to get a better understanding of the ethanol production process. 

“As producers of clean energy from locally-grown corn, we are also stewards of our area’s natural resources. We are always pleased to give students a first-hand look at how we convert a homegrown, renewable ingredient into ethanol and co-products that benefit the environment and contribute to rural economies, energy independence, as well as savings at the pump,” said Jeanne McCaherty, CEO of Guardian Energy. 

During the tour, the students learned about the different stages of the ethanol production process such as incoming grain grading, grain handling, fermentation, grain storage, dried distillers grain production and storage, ethanol storage and shipment.

The students who attended the tour were from grades 11 and 12 and are from the school’s natural resources management class.

The tour was organized by the Minnesota Bio-Fuels Association (MN Bio-Fuels). Guardian Energy is a member of MN Bio-Fuels.

“We regularly bring students to ethanol plants to learn the important role the ethanol industry plays in reducing prices at the pump,” said Tim Rudnicki, executive director at MN Bio-Fuels.

Gena Lilienthal, agri-science teacher at St Peter Public Schools, accompanied her students for the tour.

“It is important for students to understand the benefits and impacts of renewable fuels in our community, This tour opened their eyes to the demand for both grain and energy. They were also able to learn about the important byproducts from ethanol production. Exposing students to industries affecting our local economy is essential,” she said.