2001
 

2001 Press Releases

December 19, 2001

Haines Awarded Third Place Honors in National Corn Growers Contest

Timely rains, mild temperatures, and good seed were all part of a winning combination for Maryland farmer, Charles Haines during this year’s Corn Yield Contest sponsored by the National Corn Growers Association (NCGA).  Haines’ victory earned him a third place overall win in the NCGA Class “A” Ridge-Till Non-Irrigated class.  Haines, who farms in Sudlersville, Maryland, managed a yield of 224.7 bushels per acre using Dekalb DKC56-71 seed.

Farming since he was just a young boy, Haines has participated in the annual contest for the last fifteen years. Haines farms 700 total acres of which corn is approximately 225 acres. Haines, who is very modest about his impressive harvest says, “I just do the best that I can.”

The NCGA’s Corn Yield Contest is an annual event with hundreds of participants across the country. Participants compete both within their state and to find the nations best.  The goal of this event is to educate farmers on improving their methods of production to increase profitability while addressing environmental concerns.

Winners of this contest will be honored at the 2002 Commodity Classic, a convention and trade show of the NCGA and the American Soybean Board (ASB) being held in Nashville, Tennessee.  Winners also receive prizes from participating seed and crop protection companies.

In addition to his national third place win, Haines placed first in his class in Maryland.  Second place winner for the Class “A” Ridge-Till Non irrigated class was Robert Taylor, Seaford, DE.

First place winner for the Class “A” Non-Irrigated class was Leonard Bowles, Loveville; second place was Ed Grimmel, Jarrettsville; and third place Thomas Martin, Pylesville.

Winners for the “A” No Till/Strip Till Non-Irrigated class were in first place Laura Bishop, Queenstown; second place Joseph Layton, Vienna; and third place William Rigg, Centreville.

Winners for the Irrigated class included Scott Dulin, Centreville in first place.  Dulin produced an impressive 297 bushels per acre also the highest recorded yield statewide.  His yield this year was 26 bushels per acre higher then his last year’s win; which was the high recorded yield statewide to date. Second place went to Joseph Taylor, Church Hill; and third place to Dan Dulin, Queen Anne.

Michael Bostic, Church Hill placed first in the Ridge Till Irrigated Class.  Lastly, for the No Till/Strip Till Non-Irrigated class Tim Bishop, Queenstown placed first and Gary King, Princess Anne placed second in the state.

According to State statistician, Ray Garibay, the average yield per acre in Maryland was 138 bushels.  This figure is down from last year’s bountiful harvest, which averaged 155 bushels per acre.  However, this too, was a good year overall for most parts of the state.

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Nov. 20, 2001

Spain Judges Maryland Wheat Superior to British

The export market for the class of wheat grown by Maryland farmers is experiencing a major surge this year, and Spain is leading the way with fast growing interest.

Maryland wheat growers produce soft red winter (SRW) wheat, a class of wheat that is used for producing a wide range of confectionary products like cookies, crackers, and cakes. About 40% of the SRW wheat grown in the U.S. is exported yearly, but global export sales of soft red winter wheat this year are running nearly 25% more than the same time last year, with current sales at 3.4 million metric tons, compared to 2.6 million metric tons at the same time last year.

For the first time in about 20 years, buyers in Europe have started buying SRW. Spain is leading the way, purchasing 310,600 metric tons already this year. Last week, U.S. Wheat Associates (USW), the industry's export market development organization, held a series of crop quality seminars with some of the Spanish mills and asked the millers what they thought of the wheat.

"We are pleased to report that several of the mills judge the SRW to be superior to the British 'biscuit wheat' that they've been using for years," said Vince Peterson, USW vice president in Europe. In an extraordinary turnaround, Peterson explains, one of the primary Spanish mills is now using 50% U.S. wheat.

European buyers and millers, like their colleagues around the world, attend USW seminars to learn about supply and demand, prices, and quality information on this year's wheat crop. In Europe this year, USW experts provided separate quality criteria for East Coast SRW, differentiating it from the soft red winter wheat that is grown in the nation's midsection and transported out of the Gulf of Mexico.

USW will be providing the East Coast SRW information to approximately 500 buyers, millers and bakers in 14 European countries during November.  For years, the U.S. wheat organizations have been pursuing European market access by seeking changes in EU ag policy. Finally, this season, import duties for SRW have been essentially zero.

"We are doing everything we can to promote U.S. wheat in this new market environment with near-open access," Peterson said. "The U.S. has now sold some 15 million bushels of SRW to the EU, and the potential for additional sales is set."

“Once again, the use of Maryland grain checkoff funds to support marketing programs has paid off.  U.S. Wheat Associates has made great strides in improving the market opportunities for SRW,” said Joe Mullhausen, President of the Maryland Grain Producers Utilization Board.

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Nov. 30, 2001

Maryland Grain Producers Feel President Bush’s Pro-Ethanol National Energy Plan is a Step Forward

The Maryland Grain Producers Utilization Board (MGPUB) has long supported the development of an ethanol industry in Maryland.  Though in some cases progress has seemed like three steps forward and two steps back. It now seems ethanol development is truly starting to move forward on its own merits.

President George W. Bush, in remarks made to Farm Journal's Sixth Annual Forum in Washington, DC, emphasized the importance of ethanol to national security, the environment and the farm economy.  After praising farmers for representing and preserving the values of the United States, the president gave a strong endorsement of renewable fuels and encouraged the Senate to pass a national energy bill.

During the pro-ethanol speech, President Bush stated, "I also want to improve our homeland security and our economy by having a national energy plan.  I want to thank the Farm Journal Forum for emphasizing the importance of ethanol and biofuels.  These fuels are gentle on the environment.  They are fuels that can be renewed year after year, and fuels that can expand our farm economy.  These fuels are made right here in America, so they can't be threatened by any foreign power."

President Bush continually reiterated his support for ethanol, adding, "Ethanol and biofuels are fuels of the future for this country.  Since the beginning of my administration, I have strongly supported ethanol and biofuels. And the energy plan I sent to Congress back in the spring supports biofuels.

“The President stated the benefits of ethanol both for the environment and the economy while enhancing our national security.  This has been our stand from the beginning,” stated Joe Mullhausen, president of the MGPUB. “We (MGPUB) have supported ethanol for almost ten years.  It has been an uphill battle but the fruits of our work are starting to show.  With support from the President and his encouragement to get the National Energy Bill passed, we feel this will give the ethanol industry a huge boost.”

It is estimated that in 2001, ethanol production will use 675 million bushels of corn, producing nearly 1.8 billion gallons of the renewable fuel.

The MGPUB recently completed a feasibility study to determine whether Maryland could support a 15 million gallon small grains ethanol plant.  Findings were favorable and currently a business plan is being developed to decide on how to proceed with this project.  If you have interest in this project or would like details on investment opportunities, contact Lynne Hoot, executive director, MGPUB at 410-956-5771.

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November 14, 2001

E85 Now Available in Maryland

Invited guests and spectators alike celebrated the opening of Maryland’s first station to sell E85 fuel.  This one-of-a-kind Chevron station is located at 3240 Fort Meade Road (Rt. 198) in Laurel.  The host for the morning was Kevin Falls, co-owner of the E85 station.

E85, a blend of 85% ethanol and 15% gasoline, is a clean-burning fuel produced in the United States primarily from corn, a renewable resource.  E85 improves air quality by reducing carbon monoxide, particulate matter and oxides of nitrogen and is the leading fuel for reducing greenhouse gases.  As an agricultural product, ethanol production plays a major role in improving the rural economies of the US and may soon become a homegrown Maryland product.

The opening of the Chevron station became possible through a grant received by the Maryland Energy Administration from the United States Department of Energy.  The Maryland Grain Producers Utilization Board (MGPUB) has been instrumental in the actual planning and development of this project.  The opening of this station supports federal and state energy policies to expand the use of alternative fuels and reduce the countries dependence on foreign oil.

“The events of September 11th opened our eyes once again to the real cost of relying on foreign oil for our energy needs,” stated Robert Hutchison, member of the Maryland Grain Producers Utilization Board.  “We are very encouraged by the opening of this E85 station.  This is the beginning of Maryland’s ethanol industry.  As this alternative fuel becomes available in more locations, consumers will look more closely at the many commercially available vehicles that can run on E85 when making their vehicle purchases.  The cost of the fuel is close to that of premium gas – so consumers will pay a little more – but they will be helping to obtain energy security and clean air.”

Several “off the lot” vehicles are flexible fuel vehicles (FFV’s) capable of running on 85% ethanol, 100% gasoline or any combination in between.  These vehicles include every Chrysler 3.3 liter minivan, certain models of the Ford Taurus and Ranger, and GM’s S-10 pickup, and Sonoma GMC.  Additional vehicles coming soon from GM include the Suburban Tahoe and Yukon models and from Ford the popular Explorer.  With this wide selection more consumers can choose to support home produced ethanol.

The Citgo station on Joyce Street, Arlington, Virginia was the first E85 station on the East Coast, which was opened in May 2000 using the same DOE grant funds.  Federal vehicles in the Pentagon region have been using this fuel to reduce the countries dependence on foreign oil.  Additional Maryland E85 locations are in the planning stages for Annapolis, Gaithersburg, and Baltimore.

On hand for the ribbon cutting ceremony and to make supportive comments regarding this momentous occasion and the use of ethanol and alternative fuels were:  Fred Hoover, Director of the Maryland Energy Administration; Patricia Pararella the Clean Cities Program Manager with US Department of Energy; Maryland’s Deputy Secretary of Agriculture Brad Powers; representatives from the auto makers and Robert Hutchison with MGPUB who concluded the opening ceremony by inviting all those present driving E85 FFV’s to fill up their vehicles with “Freedom Fuel”.

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November 8, 2001

First E-85 Station to Open in Maryland

After months of preparation and hard work, Maryland will celebrate the grand opening of the first E85 refueling station on Wednesday, November 14, 2001.  The celebration takes place at the Chevron station on Rt. 198 in Fort Meade from 10:00 a.m. until noon.  Speakers will include several senior level federal and state officials as well as representatives from the auto industry.  The host for the morning is Kevin Falls co-owner of the E85 station.

E85, a blend of 85% ethanol and 15% gasoline, is a clean-burning fuel produced in the United States mostly from corn- a renewable resource.  E85 improves air quality by reducing carbon monoxide, particulate matter and oxides of nitrogen and is the leading fuel for reducing greenhouse gases.  As an agricultural product, ethanol production plays a major role in improving the rural economies of the US and may soon become a homegrown Maryland product.

“We are very encouraged by the opening of this E85 refueling station,” commented Robert Hutchison, a member of the Maryland Grain Producers Utilization Board (MGPUB) also a grain, hog and vegetable farmer in Talbot County.  Hutchison has been very active with the MGPUB in promoting ethanol use in Maryland  “Our country is at war over oil, we must lessen our dependency on foreign oil sources.  The use of E85 brings our country one step closer towards energy independence. The US has the natural resources and the knowledge to produce our own alternative fuels. Costs can be kept in control by producing right here within our country, with benefits for all those involved—from the grain producer to the jobs provided in the ethanol plants to the environment from the person filling up their car at the fuel station.”

The opening of this Chevron station has been made possible by federal and state grants and implemented by the Maryland Grain Producers Utilization Board.  The opening of this station supports federal and state energy policies to expand the use of alternative fuels. 

This is the first of the proposed infrastructure development for alternative fuel stations in Maryland and the second in this region.  The first station was in Arlington, Virginia near the Pentagon.  Future stations will be located near federal and state offices.  With government endorsement of alternative fuels, it is our hope to see fuel stations across the state offering ethanol,” continued Hutchison. 

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Oct. 18, 2001

Ethanol is Good for Maryland

Ethanol Is Good for Maryland…Ethanol is Good for the United States; that is what many attendees of the recent US Department of Energy sponsored Ethanol Workshop learned, although many already knew it to be true. 

A full slate of speakers including Congressman Roscoe G. Bartlett; Valerie Reed of the DOE’s Office of Fuels Development; Bob Dineen, President of the Renewable Fuels Association; and Hosein Shapouri, of the USDA’s Office of Energy Policy and New Uses, plus a host of others all convened to give their outlook on ethanol and its place in Maryland.

Participants of the workshop also heard a very enlightening talk about increasing energy security using renewable biomass from guest speaker R. James Woolsey, former Director of the Central Intelligence Agency.  Woolsey, expressed the need for our country to act.  He stated we have had a very important ‘wake up call’.  Now is the time for the United States to unite.  Woolsey quoted statistics on times our nation has come together during war and other crises.  Emphasizing that now more that ever we need to ‘wake up’ and make a difference concerning renewable fuels and the impact it can make on our country.

The information presented throughout the day gave positive indications that ethanol use could and should be expanded as a fuel source for our nation.  Given the present global circumstances, all speakers made specific reference that our dependency on foreign oil must lessen. 

“Ethanol is a renewable fuel source our country needs. It is good for the consumers, the economy, and the environment,” stated Robert Hutchison, member of the Maryland Grain Producers Utilization Board (MGPUB) and a grain, hog and vegetable farmer from Talbot County. “Our Board has been working to develop an ethanol market in Maryland for about 10 years.  With the recent energy crunch, rising environmental awareness, and events worldwide, the public is starting to realize how important it is that the United States becomes less depend on foreign oil.  Ethanol is a workable solution.  A solution that is good for the people and the environment.”

Another highlight to the day’s event were results from the Ethanol Feasibility Study contracted by the MGPUB.  Al Voudrie, president of Voudrie Business Development, Inc. gave very positive findings for the probability of constructing an ethanol plant in Maryland.  Their conclusions are based on a 15 million gallon per year ethanol plant, which would run on barley and other small grains including wheat.  The approximate cost for constructing a plant of this size would be $30 million. The next stage is for MGPUB to develop a business plan, do site evaluations and prepare an economic impact study so investors can realize the benefits.  There will be plenty of opportunity for investors – both farmers and non-farmers - to get involved with this project.

Presently, there are more than 60 ethanol plants in the United States.  Most are located in the Mid-West.  Should Maryland construct its own plant, it would be the first in the state and perhaps the Mid Atlantic Region.  Currently several states, including New Jersey, New York and Pennsylvania, are investigating the possibility of constructing their own facilities.  As the East Coast ethanol market takes off, as many are hoping it will, there will be a great need to build more facilities providing a much-needed stimulus to our lagging economy.

Hutchison finished by saying, “I feel the day was a total success.  There was a positive feeling about ethanol and it place in our economy.  We all need to keep moving forward in our efforts to bring ethanol to Maryland.  The Maryland Grain Producers Utilization Board and its members are doing trying to do their part in making this a reality…but it will take the work of many!”

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Oct. 17, 2001

MGPA Supports Trade Promotion Authority 

Members of the Maryland Grain Producers Association (MGPA) are encouraging all their members contact their congressional members and express support for Trade Promotion Authority. 

Trade Promotion Authority (TPA) allows the President to enter into negotiations with export customers to develop mutually agreeable trade agreements.  The development, or negotiation, of these agreements is vital to the competitiveness of U.S. agricultural products in world markets. 

The United States exports an average of 20 percent of our corn production and additional corn as value-added meat and poultry, corn gluten and sweeteners.  Easily, one-fourth of U.S. corn production supplies foreign markets, but US competitors are continually chipping away at that share of world agricultural trade.  TPA will provide the leverage the United States needs to negotiate the best possible trade agreements to keep U.S. agriculture competitive. 

President of the Maryland Grain Producers Association, Donnie Tennyson of St. Mary’s County stated, “It is vital to agriculture that the President be able to negotiate for our commodities.  With the economy and worldwide situations as they are, the United States needs to be a part of these agreements.  Our export markets must broaden.”  

There are more than 130 preferential trade and investment agreements in the world today, and the United States is a party to only two.  Without the United States being party to such agreements, grain exports are penalized with higher tariffs and other non-tariff barriers.  U.S. agricultural exports face oppressive barriers to trade worldwide.  Globally, the tariff on agricultural products is 62 percent while the tariff on non-agricultural products is just 4 percent.  

Just as high transportation costs result in a lower price for the grain producers, the same is true of tariffs on U.S. exports.  Lower tariffs mean more grain or other commodities actually enter a foreign country and less is spent on the tariff.  A negotiated trade agreement also allows for the United States to access market opportunities that we are currently being denied due to a lack of these agreements.

MGPA supports policies that increase the export demand for U.S. grain because domestic grain prices are established by the strength of world markets.  As the global demand for grain increases, the domestic price increases.

This is why MGPA supports Trade Promotion Authority for the President.  TPA allows the President the authority to negotiate trade agreements with the assurance that Congress will either approve or deny the agreement and not seek alterations in the details of the agreement.  Our trading partners perceive the lack of negotiating authority as an indication that the United States is not prepared to undertake serious negotiations.

“As our grain prices continue to remain at all time lows the future for many farmers is in jeopardy.  It will take actions like TPA to stimulate exports and increase grain prices nationally,” finished Tennyson.

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Oct. 16, 2001  

Tailgating Season Perfect Time to Encourage Healthy Eating

With the arrival of fall, many families and friends get together to participate in, or watch and cheer on, their favorite professional, college, or local high school football teams. But what is a football game without a tailgate party - whether in a parking lot or in the comfort of your own living room?

The Maryland Grain Producers Association (MGPA) would like to remind you that just as athletes need to eat healthy foods to maintain high levels of energy, so do the fans. Tailgate parties should include healthful treats. Good-for-you treats can provide an essential source of fuel necessary for even the most diehard fans to cheer on their teams.

Healthful foods - including those made from grains - help form the foundation of a nutritious diet. Snacks containing grains, both whole and enriched, provide some key nutrients and benefits:

Grain foods, such as bread, are common to everyone's diet. Different grain foods provide different benefits, all of which are good for your health. Not only do nutritious snacks rich in grains help protect against many chronic diseases, but they also help bring out the true "athlete" in every tailgater.

“Maryland’s wheat growers believe that it is good to keep the public abreast of the importance of grains in the everyday diet,” stated Donnie Tennyson, president of the MGPA and a grain farmer in St. Mary’s County.  “Too many people get caught up with  ‘fad diets’ when they become the newest rage and they forget about well-balanced diets.  Grains are a huge part of a healthy diet…a diet that we need to maintain for a lifetime.”

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Oct. 6, 2001

Fiber Utilization Study Shows Benefit of Checkoff Dollars

Many farmers wonder if mandatory checkoff program are truly worthwhile.  The importance of the funds provided by corn checkoffs from 19 grower states cannot be understated. The funds are used for several things, all of which are directed back at the grower to make their work more profitable. One of the higher-visibility uses for checkoff monies is new uses research.

Fiber utilization is one of the many research projects the National Corn Growers Association is working on to open new markets to corn growers for their product. The research, funded in part by the checkoffs of 19 grower states including Maryland, increases the utilization of the undervalued corn fiber and can help reduce reliance on non-renewable fossil fuels

Currently a study is being conducted with Battelle Memorial Institute's Pacific Northwest Laboratories and ADM simultaneously. They are studying the engineering economics for a fiber utilization project, which uses corn fiber from the corn wet-milling process as a feedstock to produce ethanol, polyols and nutraceuticals. The project is also funded in part by checkoff dollars...dollars used to open new markets for the nation's grain producers.

At this time studies are showing that by separating the fiber into its components more sugar is available for fermentation into alcohols or glycols. These alcohols and glycols can then be used for items such as cosmetics and the fermentation extract can be further used to form the basis of high-value pharmaceuticals and nutraceuticals.  Further research is being conducted to determine the added value this process could add to the agricultural market. 

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Oct. 2, 2001

Ethanol Workshop has Full Agenda

The Maryland Ethanol Workshop re-scheduled for Thursday, October 11, 2001 will be offering a full slate speakers and valuable information.  This event sponsored by the U.S. Department of Energy, the Maryland Department of Agriculture, the Maryland Department of the Environment and the Regional Biomass Energy Program is a part of a series of workshops held in many states across the country.

The workshop program will begin in the morning with an overview about the ethanol industry and the factors that have led to record levels of production of this renewable motor fuel.  During lunch former Director of the Central Intelligence Agency, R. James Woolsey, will discuss the role of renewable fuels in increasing our energy security. Government officials should find of particular interest the afternoon discussions about federal and state policies that have been used to encourage fuel ethanol use and production in other states.

Government officials, business owners, fleet managers, industry representatives and the public are invited to attend “A Dialogue: The Potential for Production and Use of Fuel Ethanol in Maryland,” a one-day workshop, Oct. 11, 2001 at the BWI Airport Marriott.

Presentations will include:      

·         The Federal Bioenergy Initiative that promotes the tripling of renewable bioenergy fuels by the year 2020.

·         Representatives of key state agencies discussing their perspectives on the merits of developing an in-state ethanol industry.

·         An overview of the A,B,C’s of ethanol.

·         The potential Environmental and Economic Development Impact.

·         Leaders from the state of Minnesota relating the dramatic impact a 225 million gallon per year ethanol industry has made on their state and what it took to make it happen.

Also on the agenda for the Ethanol Workshop will be final phase results from the Ethanol Feasibility Study commissioned by the Maryland Grain Producers Utilization Board (MGPUB).  This study, exploring the possibility of Maryland constructing its own ethanol plant, has gained support since first phase results proved to be very favorable.

MGPUB is looking at the feasibility of constructing a 15 million gallon ethanol plant. This would be a small grains plant with the probability of operating on primarily barley.  To construct a plant of this size would cost approximately $30 million dollars and require approximately 7 million bushels of barley.

When and where:

The workshop will be held on Oct. 11, 2001, 8:30 am to 3:30 pm, at BWI Airport Marriott, 1743 W. Nursery Road. The registration fee of $35 includes lunch, refreshments and information packet.

The Maryland Ethanol Workshop is part of a nationwide series of workshops sponsored by the U.S. Department of Energy, the Maryland Department of Agriculture, the Maryland Department of the Environment and the Regional Biomass Energy Program in many states across the country.  In 2001, workshops are also being held in North Carolina, Oregon, Alaska, Utah, Iowa, Idaho and Puerto Rico.

For more information contact Jerline Williams at the Maryland Energy Administration, 410-260-7190 or jwilliams@energy.state.md.us.  The Agenda and Registration Form are posted on the organizer's website, www.BBIethanol.com.  Click on DOE Workshops, then on Maryland.

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September 6, 2001 

Hopes to Build Maryland’s First Ethanol Plant Gain Momentum! 

After months of study, results are showing that the economic feasibility of Maryland having its own ethanol plant is very favorable!

Earlier this year, the Maryland Grain Producers Utilization Board along with Maryland Center for Agro-Ecology, Inc. funded a Feasibility Study for construction of an ethanol plant in Maryland. This study was awarded to Voudrie Business Development, Inc. of Elk River, Minnesota.  Voudrie Business Development, Inc. was selected because of a strong track record having successfully completed five other projects of this nature.  They had also teamed with Katzen International, an engineering company with experience building small grains ethanol plants.

The final phase results are to be released at the upcoming Ethanol Workshop sponsored by the U.S. Department of Energy, the Maryland Energy Office, the Maryland Department of Agriculture and the Maryland Department of the Environment on September 13^th at the BWI Airport Marriott.

Robert Hutchison, a member of the Board of Directors of Maryland Grain Producers Association stated, “I truly believe now is the time for ethanol to make its move.  Consumers are realizing the constraints of our fuel market and are looking for a better solution.  Ethanol is the answer!  The sheer facts that ethanol is a renewable resource, burns cleaner, can help a lagging agricultural economy, and can be produced right here in Maryland are just a few of the reasons we need to keep up the charge for ethanol.”

The ethanol feasibility study has been analyzing the potential to use barley and other small grains including wheat as the primary feedstock.  The approximate cost for constructing a 15 million gallons per year ethanol plant would be $30 million. A plant of this size would require 7 million bushels of grain.  Members of the MGPUB are quite certain Maryland farmers would produce more barley to respond to this new market.  Barley and other small grains serve as very effective cover crops, which prevent nutrients and sediment from getting into the Chesapeake Bay, so a Maryland based ethanol will do more for the environment than just improve air quality; it will also improve water quality as well. 

Following the Ethanol Workshop, members of the MGPUB will be meeting experts in the field to determine how to proceed with this project.

“This is a massive project.  One the Maryland Grain Producers Utilization Board can’t handle alone.  We feel it is important to get the expertise needed to make this a successful operation.  There is obviously much work to be done, but we are confident ethanol has a place in Maryland,” finished Hutchison.

For more information on the Maryland Ethanol Workshop, contact the organizers at BBI, 1-800-567-6411.

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September 5, 2001

Workshop to Focus on Ethanol's Potential in Maryland

Increasing dependence on foreign oil and rising gasoline prices have increased Maryland's interest in the use of domestically produced fuel ethanol as part of the national trend to use renewable fuels in our automobiles.  While supplementing our energy sources, ethanol production facilities create much needed economic development, creating jobs and revitalizing agricultural communities.  Ethanol does all of that... plus improving air quality at the same time.

In order to take a close look at ethanol's potential in Maryland, the UD Department of Energy is sponsoring a one-day Workshop at which the energy, economic and environmental impact on the state will be examined.  Hosts for the day are the Maryland Energy Office, the Maryland Department of Agriculture and the Maryland Department of the Environment.

The workshop program will begin in the morning with an overview about the ethanol industry and the factors that have led to record levels of production of this renewable motor fuel.  During lunch former Director of the Central Intelligence Agency, R. James Woolsey, will discuss the role of renewable fuels in increasing our energy security. Later in the afternoon we will hear the conclusions of a recently completed study to determine the feasibility of developing an ethanol plant in Maryland using locally produced grains.  Government officials should find of particular interest the afternoon discussions about federal and state policies that have been used to encourage fuel ethanol use and production in other states.

“We are very excited about the opportunity to showcase ethanol at this workshop,” said Robert Hutchison, a member of the Board of Directors of Maryland Grain Producers Association, and a panel moderator at the event.  “In several other states these workshops have been the turning point for ethanol, a renewable fuel that improves air quality and reduces our dependence on foreign oil,” added Hutchison. 

Government officials, business owners, fleet managers, industry representatives and the public are invited to attend “A Dialogue: The Potential for Production and Use of Fuel Ethanol in Maryland,” a one-day workshop, September 13, 2001, at the BWI Airport Marriott. 

Presentations will include:      

·         The Federal Bioenergy Initiative that promotes the tripling of renewable bioenergy fuels by the year 2020.\

·         Representatives of key state agencies discussing their perspectives on the merits of developing an in-state ethanol industry.

·         An overview of the A,B,C’s of ethanol.

·         The potential Environmental and Economic Development Impact.

·         Results from the ethanol feasibility study commissioned by the Maryland Grain Producers Utilization Board and identification of Maryland's resources that can be feedstocks for ethanol production.

·         Leaders from the state of Minnesota relating the dramatic impact a 225 million gallon per year ethanol industry has made on their state and what it took to make it happen.

When and where:

The workshop will be held on September 13, 2001, 8:30 am to 3:30 pm, at BWI Airport Marriott, 1743 W. Nursery Road. The registration fee of $35 includes lunch, refreshments and information packet. 

The Maryland Ethanol Workshop is part of a nationwide series of workshops sponsored by the U.S. Department of Energy, the Maryland Department of Agriculture, the Maryland Department of the Environment and the Regional Biomass Energy Program in many states across the country.  In 2001, workshops are also being held in North Carolina, Oregon, Alaska, Utah, Iowa, Idaho and Puerto Rico.  

For more information contact Jerline Williams at the Maryland Energy Administration, 410-260-7190 or jwilliams@energy.state.md.us.  The Agenda and Registration Form are posted on the organizer's website, www.BBIethanol.com.  Click on DOE Workshops, then on Maryland.

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Aug. 8, 2001

Maryland Grain Checkoff Program to Continue

Organizers of the referendum on the Maryland Grain Checkoff Program were pleased with a positive outcome.  Although voter turn out was not as good as expected, the grain checkoff program passed by an 85% margin.  The total number of votes equaled 325 with 273 in favor of the program.  Eligible voters had to be financially engaged in the growing of grain as a landowner, tenant, or sharecropper.

The Maryland Grain Producers Association had been authorized to conduct the referendum by the former Secretary of Agriculture Henry A. Virts.  The vote was held in County Extension Offices on Thursday, Aug. 2^nd, or by previous absentee ballot, with the official counting taking place on Aug. 7^th at the quarterly meeting of the Maryland Grain Producers Association.  Under the authorizing state law, a referendum is required every 5 years to reaffirm support for the checkoff program.

“We are very pleased that Maryland’s grain producers were in favor of the Maryland Grain Checkoff Program (MGCP),” stated Donnie Tennyson, president of the Maryland Grain Producers Association (MGPA) and a grain farmer in Dameron, MD.  “I feel that farmers realized the importance of this program and how it is expanding new uses of grain to improve the profitability of our business.”

The mandatory checkoff states that a farmer must pay an assessment of one half of one percent (.5%) to be collected on the net value of each bushel of grain sold.  The checkoff will be deducted at the first point of sale on all grain, with the exception of soybeans, which is already under a national checkoff program.  Any producer who does not wish to participate in the program can get a full or partial refund upon written request.

Joe Mullhausen, president of the Maryland Grain Producers Utilization Board (MGPUB) and a grain farmer in Street, MD added, “I felt confident the MGCP would pass by a substantial vote.  However, it is disappointing that such a small number of farmers actually took the time to cast their vote.  Farmers are getting results from the positive effects of this program.  Great strides are being made in research, education, and promotion of our products. I know commodity prices are low but the question that should be asked is, where would we be without the checkoff. I think most farmers know the answer.”

MGPUB is the 18-member board that administers the checkoff program. The 14 voting members of the board represent grain producers from six regions throughout the state.  Funding is used for education, research and market development.  The Board appropriates most of the approximately $450,000 collected annually to provide grants to carry out these activities.  One of the grants awarded in 2001 was to conduct a study on the feasibility of a small grains ethanol plant in Maryland.

Currently, 20 corn and 21 small grain checkoff programs across America are working together to improve grower profitability. Now passed by a majority of voters, the ten-year old Maryland Grain Checkoff Program will continue for another five years beginning October 1, 2001.

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August 8, 2000

Harrison and Weddle awarded MGPUB scholarships

The Maryland Grain Producers Utilization Board recently awarded two scholarships in the amount of $2,500 each.  The recipients of these awards were Mr. Michael R. Harrison of Woodbine, Md. and Jeremiah Weddle of Hagerstown, Md. 

Mr. Michael Harrison is student at the University of Maryland.  He is studying for a degree in Agronomy and Crop Science.  He intends to pursue a career studying the effects of different varieties of corn and soybeans and how planting widths and population rates can help to maximize the potential yield of a crop. 

“We all felt that Michael was an excellent choice for this scholarship.  He has surely demonstrated his love for agriculture through his years working on his family’s farm and involving himself in the ag community,” stated Donnie Tennyson of Dameron, MD, scholarship committee member. 

Harrison’s family tills over 670 acres and maintains a 50 head Angus cattle herd in Carroll County.  He has actively farmed since he was a small boy and participated in his local 4-H and FFA groups.  Harrison continues to volunteer with these youth programs by educating the 4-Hers and their families about breeding, feeding, fitting, and showing market cattle.  He has gained his vast knowledge in this field as a result of his participation with the Maryland Livestock Judging Team, which competed on a national level in Louisville, Kentucky. 

The second award winner, Mr. Jeremiah Weddle, has also demonstrated many fine qualities as a student in agriculture at Delaware Valley College studying for a degree in Agronomy and Animal Science.  His dream is to go into partnership with his father on their family farm and plans to help the business grow and reach its largest potential.   His goal in farming is to earn a good living by crop farming, custom farming, and raising replacement heifers. 

Weddle, too, has farmed with his family in Washington County since the time he was a small boy.  Tilling over 1400 acres of grain and soybeans, Weddle’s family also raises 150 Holstein heifers for a large operation in Pennsylvania.  Weddle has been an active member of his local 4-H Club, member of the Benevola United Methodist Church, and a junior member of both the Washington County Registered Holstein Club and the Maryland Holstein Club. 

Tennyson added, “Jeremiah, too, was a superior choice for this year’s scholarships.  We had excellent applicants this year, but these two students were truly deserving of these awards.  It is great to see how these people (Harrison and Weddle) have excelled in their academic careers and been outstanding citizens in their communities and civic groups.” 

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August 1, 2001

Frank Perdue named ‘Man of the Year’ at Commodity Classic

For a third year, crowds of farmers from the Maryland Grain Producers Association (MGPA) and the Maryland Soybean Board (MSB) put their work aside for a day to attend the Commodity Classic, the joint annual meeting for both groups.  Though hot, humid temperatures prevailed throughout most of the day, everyone was delighted with the downpour of rain that came during the afternoon meeting. 

One highlight of the day included the presentation of the MGPA “Man of the Year” award.  This year’s award was presented to Mr. Frank Perdue.  Perdue is known as a pioneer in the poultry industry and a strong advocate for Maryland’s grain industry. 

“When Frank Perdue’s name was nominated, the entire board unanimously agreed he was the perfect man for this award,” stated Jamie Jamison, master of ceremonies and a grain farmer in Montgomery County.  “Mr. Perdue has always been there in support of our industry.  Last year’s surplus of grain was a perfect example.  Perdue Farms could have easily turned their back’s and refused our grain.  Instead they accepted our trucks and dumped it on the ground for future storage! That commitment to the grain industry is tremendous.” 

Accepting the award for Mr. Perdue was Dick Willey.  Willey is the President and General Manager of the Grain, Oil and Seed Division of Perdue Farms, Inc. 

Willey commented on how strongly Mr. Perdue has supported Maryland’s grain industry.

Having begun in the poultry industry back in the 1960’s, he (Perdue) realized the value of a good working relationship with Maryland’s grain farmers.  Known as the “Tough man who makes a tender chicken,” Mr. Perdue has always been in the heart of the business willing to go the extra mile. 

Also scheduled during the afternoon meeting was a panel discussion for the 2002 Farm Bill.  On hand to give their perspective was Mr. John McClelland, Director for Energy and Analysis for the National Corn Growers Association; Ms. Anne Keys, from the Environmental Working Group; and Mr. Rick Kirchhoff, of the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture.

Following the Farm Bill discussion were short presentations by Mr. John Schillinger, of Heartland Farms and Mr. Gene Gebolys, of World Energy Alternative, LLC speaking on the explosive use of biodiesel.  Before breaking for the much awaited crab feast, attendees were given a quick overview of the favorable findings for the Ethanol Feasibility Study commissioned by the MGPUB.  Following the meal, an Ethanol Workshop was held which gave specific details on the first phase of the study. 

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July 31, 2001

Favorable Initial Results of  Ethanol Feasibility Study Excite Maryland farmers!

Members of the Maryland Grain Producers Utilization Board (MGPUB) were more than pleased with the results of the first phase of an Ethanol Feasibility study that was commissioned earlier this year.  The results were released at the Commodity Classic on July 26^th. 

Al Voudrie, president of Voudrie Business Development, Inc. along with Dale Monceaux, senior vice president of Katzen International, Inc. gave very positive findings for the probability of constructing an ethanol plant in Maryland.  Their conclusions are based on a 15 million gallon per year ethanol plant, which would run on barley and other small grains including wheat.  The approximate cost for constructing a plant of this size would be $30 million. 

“The question we have been asked is …why barley?” stated Robert Hutchison, a Talbot County grain and vegetable farmer and a member of the committee which is spearheading this study.  “Quite simply, barley is a crop more farmers would like to grow if the price was more favorable especially as it also serves as a great cover crop.  Most people are familiar with ethanol plants running on corn, but here in Maryland, we have an established market for all the corn we can grow.” 

Maryland is known as a corn deficit state.  This is due to the fact that all the corn grown is used primarily for the poultry industry.  There is no excess requiring export. 

Currently, Maryland produces approximately 4 million bushels of barley.  A plant of this size would require 7 million bushels to produce 15 million gallons of ethanol.  Members of the MGPUB are quite certain Maryland farmers would produce more barley if the market dictated so.  If the farmers decided not to expand the amount of barley grown they could substitute wheat or tritacale, or the additional needed bushels of barley could be purchased from neighboring farmers in Delaware and Pennsylvania. 

The ethanol produced from this plant would have several market outlets, including its use as an additive in reformulated gasoline.  Under the guidelines of the Clean Air Act of 1990, fuel sold in certain polluted areas must be oxygenated to improve the emissions that effect air quality.  One of the polluted areas is the Baltimore-Washington corridor.  The additive that has been used most along the West and East coasts has been methyl tertiary butyl ether, better known to the public as MTBE.  MTBE has been found to pollute ground water and is a possible cancer causing agent.  Many states have started to phase out the use of MTBE because of this and will be replacing it with ethanol.  

Ethanol is a renewable resource made from any starched based product. It is clean burning and proven safe for the environment.  Ethanol has been produced and used in the mid west for many years.  Since the banning of MTBE many additional ethanol plants, including that of Maryland’s, are being studied as to the feasibility of production in their areas.  

The second phase of this study is due to be completed at the end of September.  At that time members of the MGPUB will decide what the next steps should be in deciding how to precede with this project. 

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July 19, 2001 

Vote for Maryland Grain Checkoff Referendum, Aug.  2^nd. 

Members of the Maryland Grain Producers Association (MGPA) and the Maryland Grain Producers Utilization Board (MGPUB) urge farmers to get out and vote on Aug. 2^nd for the Maryland Grain Checkoff Program referendum. 

Under the authorizing state law, the checkoff program is required to conduct referendums every 5 years to reaffirm support.  If passed by a majority of those voting who are eligible to vote, the ten-year old Maryland Grain Checkoff Program (MGCP) will continue for a further five years from October 1, 2001. 

Since the passage of the grain checkoff in 1991 the MGPUB has been focusing on efforts to expand the new uses of grain to improve the profitability of grain production.  New product development will continue to stabilize the grain market and increase demand. 

Currently, 20 corn and 21 small grain checkoff programs across America are working together to improve grower profitability.  Should a producer choose not participate in the program there is a provision for a full or partial refund. 

Joe Mullhausen, president of the MGPUB stated, “I think all farmers should vote ‘Yes” for this referendum.  The checkoff program helps to generate a demand for our product and prices are determined by supply and demand.” 

Eligible voters must be financially engaged in the growing of grain as an owner, tenant, or sharecropper. 

“What is important is that farmers get out there and vote. This is an important time for the Maryland grain industry.  It is imperative that farmers get out there and show their support for the checkoff program,” finished Mullhausen.  

The referendum will be held from 9:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m. at the county Cooperative Extension Offices.  Absentee ballots are available at each County Extension office and must be completed and returned to the Extension Office or mailed to MGPA, 53 Slama Road, Edgewater, MD 21037 to be received by Aug. 2^nd. For more information, contact Lynne Hoot at 410-956-5771.

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July 16, 2001

 Optimism about Ethanol discussed at Rep. Roscoe G. Bartlett event

Members of the Maryland Grain Producers Association are doing everything in their power to keep the momentum moving for the expanded use of ethanol!  

Ethanol is a renewable fuel made from corn, wheat, or any starch-based product.  It has become the front-runner in the quest for seniority in the fuel industry. E-85 is a mixture of 85 percent ethanol and 15 percent gasoline.  Ethanol, is also used with gasoline as a 10% blend as an oxygenate which has proven to help restore air quality, in addition to reducing greenhouses gasses and other pollutants.  Ethanol is a favored choice of environmentalist because as well as improving air quality, it comes from renewable resources and improves the rural economy, while lessening our dependence on foreign oil sources. 

The Bioenergy Act of 2001, introduced by Rep. Roscoe G. Bartlett, R-Md., seeking to double federal funds for research on alternative fuels, could benefit Maryland grain and poultry farmers eager to find new outlets for their crops. 

“The Bioenergy Act of 2001 being sponsored by Rep. Bartlett is very timely for Maryland farmers.  We are grateful for the support and interest being put forth in this bill,” stated Melvin Baile, a member of the Maryland Grain Producers Association and a farmer grain farmer in Carroll County. 

This bill would provide competitive grants totaling $49 million a year for the next five years to help nurture many different projects, such as finding more efficient ways to convert ethanol in to fuel. 

Soon Marylander’s will be able to show their support for alternative fuels, as the first E85 station is expected to open in September.  The Chevron station in Fort Meade located on Rt.198 approximately ½ mile west of Rt.32 will soon be installing new equipment so it can sell E85. 

The opening of this alternative fuel station became possible through grants from the US Department of Energy (DOE) and the Maryland Grain Producers Utilization Board (MGPUB). This is just the first station in the planned infrastructure to expand alternative fuel use in Maryland.  Many other E85 stations are in the planning stages.  Locations include: Annapolis, Gaithersburg, and the University of Maryland, College Park.  An E85 station is already up and running in Arlington, VA.                                               

Under the terms of the Energy Policy of 1992, the federal and state government fleets are required to purchase 75% of their new cars and light trucks to operate on alternative fuels.  The Fort Meade Chevron site was selected because the large volume of federal vehicles in the area, though it will be readily accessible for the general public’s use. 

Baile added, “The infrastructure of stations providing ethanol for sale is vital to making the public aware of it existence. The Bioenergy Act of 2001 is needed to show the public alternative fuels are a positive step for our nation.  We have been depended on foreign sources far too long.”  

In trying to better prepare for the expanded need for ethanol on the East Coast, the Maryland Grain Producers Utilization Board (MGPUB) has recently commissioned an Ethanol Feasibility Study.  This two-part study has been awarded to Voudrie Business Development, Inc. of Elk River, Minnesota and Katzen International. 

This study will quantify the benefits and risks associated with building a value-added ethanol processing facility in Maryland.  The emphasis will be placed on the feasibility of using small grains such as barley, to produce ethanol.  The two-phase study will also investigate ways to enhance local production by removing portions of the crop for other uses prior to fermentation and also using less traditional biomass crops. 

“We are very anxious to hear the results of this study,” stated Baile.  “Our board feels that the timing is right to look at the possibility of an ethanol plant in Maryland.  With energy shortages impacting businesses and homes across the country, the ability of Maryland to become at least partially self sufficient with “homegrown” fuel is very timely,” commented Baile, “not only could ethanol provide an energy source for the state – it could provide Maryland farmers with improved grain prices at a time when the farm economy is in trouble.” 

Results from the first phase of this feasibility study will be released at the 3^rd Annual Commodity Classic, a meeting held by the MGPA, on July 26^th.  The final phase will be completed by September of this year.

“All indicators show that ethanol could have a promising future in Maryland. The Maryland Grain Producers Association has supported the use of ethanol for many years.  It is very fulfilling to see Rep. Bartlett and the Bush Administration supporting these efforts, as well.” finished Baile.

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July 10, 2001

 Prospect of Having a Second Year of Good Yields have Maryland Farmers in Good Spirits 

For a second year, Maryland farmers have a reason to be optimist about good crop yields. 

Mother Nature has contributed by delivering timely rains, high heat, and good soil conditions.

“At this point in the growing season corn and soybeans are looking very promising,” stated Phil Councell, a grain and vegetable farmer in Talbot County and member of the Maryland Grain Producers Association (MGPA).  “I like to use the term ‘cautiously optimist’ when asked about how crops are progressing.  Right now things look great. However, we all know that there are many days ahead until harvest time.”

Maryland’s corn crop has been planted for several weeks along with many acres of soybeans.  Late soybeans will be planted at the completion of the wheat harvest.  As is the case most years, several areas in Maryland are a week or so later in their harvest, thus pushing their late planting dates back slightly.

“If rains can continue to come throughout the growing season, we will be thrilled.  Commodity prices are still greatly depressed so we cannot expect big profits, but high yields will certainly help balance things out,” added Drew Stabler, also a member of the MGPA and a farmer in Montgomery County.”

There are certain times during the maturing stages of corn and soybeans where rain is essential for good development.  If the moisture is not received these times the plant risks not growing to its fullest potential.  As in years past, you end up with crops that produce very low yields and consequently profits are extremely low or nonexistent.

“As any farmer will tell you,