E15

E15

Maura Bennett
Maura Bennett
E15

Corn growers in Colorado have been holding their breath awaiting the news that year round sales of gasoline blended with E15 ethanol could be a reality.

Year round sales now is a step closer to reality following the Trump administration's announcement that it has directed the Environmental Protection Agency to begin the process. The EPA which regulates air pollution from gasoline, currently blocks the sale of E15 from June 1 to September 15 in areas where smog is a problem.

Dave Eckhardt President of Colorado Corn Growers says they were hoping to hear this news.

Ag Secretary Sonny Perdue said he welcomed the move.

Perdue said E15 year round sales could eventually consume an additional two billion bushels of corn. That could do a lot to make corn prices rise.

Not everyone is excited though. Some environmental activists argue that expanding the availability of E15 will result in more prairies being plowed and waterways polluted by agricultural runoff. Some automakers warn that car warranties would be voided if motorists use E15. The oil industry fearing a reduction in demand of gasoline, is ready to sue the administration saying it doesn't have the authority to order year round sales of E15. It says only a congressional mandate could do that.

Previous ReportHeading off Cannabis Growing Pains
Next ReportColorado Hay Report