BioFuels Journal

BFJ.com Q & A Podcast With Iowa Renewable Fuels Assn. Executive Director Monte Shaw

On the June flooding in Iowa:

"The actual impact was fairly limited to one to two weeks at three plants. The bulk of production will be online by June 27."

On Iowa’s corn crop:

"10% of corn acres at the worst time (were damaged). They have already replanted some. We could still have an average crop this year."

On the Iowa ethanol industry:

"I have not talked to a plant that short term is in dire straights right now."

About The Iowa Renewable Fuels Association

The Iowa Renewable Fuels Association (IRFA) assists Iowa ethanol and biodiesel producers to develop and grow the state's renewable fuels industry through education, promotion and infrastructure development.

IRFA members include Iowa ethanol and biodiesel producers and companies that own or operate at least one renewable fuels plant in Iowa. About the IRFA:

• The IRFA finds ways to enhance profitability for plants and increase consumer access to renewable fuels.

• The IRFA seeks methods for expanding biodiesel production and usage in the state. Also, as manager of the Iowa Values Fund program, grants are available through the IRFA for biodiesel off-site and on-site storage facilities.

• The IRFA is concentrating on making E85 available at more retail locations to give flexible-fuel vehicle (FFV) owners better access to this fuel. In addition, the IRFA is managing the Iowa Values Fund Renewable Fuels Infrastructure Program which provides grants to stations for upgrading or installing new pumps. • The IRFA works with regulators to adopt reasonable and enforceable water quality standards, air emission standards, processing permits, and fuel regulations.

IRFA Staff:

• Monte Shaw, executive director

• Lucy Norton, managing director

• Julie Vyskocil, biofuels specialist

For more information, call 515-252-6249.