Winthrop, September 24 - Ten students from New Ulm High School toured Heartland Corn Products today to learn about clean renewable Minnesota energy.

"We were pleased to welcome New Ulm High School today. These tours provide us with the opportunity to show students how Minnesota-produced ethanol displaces harmful greenhouse gas emissions, benefits our local economy and increases our energy independence,” said Scott Blumhoefer, Vice-President at Heartland Corn Products.

The students were from New Ulm High School’s Advanced Natural Resources, DNR Management, Energy & Recreation class.

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

The tour was organized by the Minnesota Bio-Fuels Association, (MN Biofuels) a non-profit trade organization that represents the ethanol industry in Minnesota. Heartland Corn Products is a member of MN Biofuels.

"Tours like these highlight the necessary skills to pursue a career in the ethanol industry and allow students the opportunity to engage with plant staff and learn about the many benefits of locally-produced biofuels,” said Tim Rudnicki, executive director at MN Biofuels.

Heartland Corn Products is one of the largest plants in Minnesota and was built in 1995.

Jeff Nelson, agriculture educator at New Ulm High School, said his students had previously learned about ethanol in his class.

"With the increased use of technology and development of new energy options, our tour of an ethanol plant helps students make connections to agriculture, science, and technology, allowing for future career preparation in the world's workforce," said Nelson.