Benson, Dec 15 - Students from Minnewaska High School’s agriculture processing class toured Chippewa Valley Ethanol Company (CVEC) yesterday to learn more about ethanol production.

During the tour, the students learned about the various stages of the ethanol production process such as incoming grain grading, grain handling, fermentation, grain storage, ethanol storage 

The students were also briefed on the role the ethanol industry plays in boosting the economy in rural Minnesota. A total of 25 students participated in the plant tour.

“We were happy to welcome students from Minnewaska’s Ag Processing class. These tours provide us with an opportunity to showcase the process of converting local corn into a high-octane fuel which lowers greenhouse gas emissions, boosts rural economies, reduces prices at the pump and promotes energy independence,” said Chad Friese, CEO of CVEC. 

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

The students that toured CVEC yesterday were from grades nine to 12. Tiffany Kobbermann, agriculture teacher at Minnewaska High School, accompanied here students for the tour.

“Many of our students’ families haul corn into ethanol plants, so this is a good way for them to understand the process. This tour allows students to connect what we have learned into real life,” she said.