Lamberton, March 24 - Twenty-three students from Sleepy Eye High School’s crop science class toured Highwater Ethanol on March 22 to learn about renewable fuel production. 

During the tour, the students learned about the various stages in ethanol production such as incoming grain grading, grain handling, fermentation, grain storage, ethanol storage and shipment and dried distillers grains production and shipment. 

“We were delighted to host students from Sleepy Eye High School. It’s important for students to learn about the ethanol production process and it’s role in creating jobs in rural Minnesota, while also reducing state greenhouse gas emissions, lowering prices at the pump and promoting energy independence,” said Brian Kletscher, CEO of Highwater Ethanol.

A recent study by the University of Minnesota Extension said Minnesota’s ethanol industry contributed $2.7 billion to the state’s economy in 2022 and supported nearly 26,000 jobs. 

The students that participated in the tour were from grades 10 to 11. 

“The students learned about corn and the uses of the crop in making renewable biofuel. I believe this was a great opportunity to reinforce the idea that corn has more uses than just for food,” said Paul Hendrickx, agriculture teacher at Sleepy Eye High School. 

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