WASHINGTON, D.C. – In celebration of Earth Day, Iowa biofuel producers, farmers, retailers, and policy leaders gathered for a community tree planting event hosted by Growth Energy. Attendees included Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig, Iowa Deputy Secretary of Agriculture Grant Menke, and Polk County Conservation Office Director Richard Leopold.
“No one understands the importance of plant-based solutions better than Iowa’s biofuel sector,” said Growth Energy Vice President of Market Development Jake Comer. “This industry is constantly working to lower carbon emissions while saving consumers money and supporting rural communities—we’re proud to celebrate Earth Day alongside leaders who share that mission, including Secretary Naig, Deputy Secretary Grant Menke, and several of the nation’s top biofuel retailers. Together, we’ll continue to keep Iowa farmers and biofuel producers at the forefront of a low-carbon economy.”
The Earth Day event was held as part of a larger woodland restoration project coordinated by Polk County Conservation and Iowa Woodland Owners Association and Bankers Trust. In total more than 750 trees will be planted in Strasser Woods in the next several weeks.
“Iowa agriculture continues to lead the way in protecting and stewarding our natural resources. Two examples that demonstrate this commitment include Iowa’s record engagement in soil conservation and water quality programs and our record-setting production and usage of cleaner burning, lower-cost biofuels,” said Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig. “The constant innovation in agriculture allows us to continue to produce more for consumers on fewer acres, with fewer inputs, and in a more sustainable manner. So, whether it’s by planting a tree, filling up with E15, or implementing a soil conservation practice, I encourage all Iowans to find a positive way to celebrate Earth Day today.”
Joining the team from Growth Energy were volunteers from the Iowa Corn Growers Association, POET, fuel retailers, and the Iowa Renewable Fuels Association. During the event, volunteers also shared their perspectives on the recent news from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) allowing the continued sale of lower-cost, lower-carbon E15 this summer. As the Iowa Renewable Fuels Association recently announced, consumer demand for more affordable E15 has surged in recent years, jumping 47 percent last year alone in Iowa.