Iowa Gov. Terry Branstad voiced his support for advancing biofuel opportunities during Tuesday’s conference with media

DES MOINES – From the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s recent E15 waiver to NASCAR’s plans to run on E15 in 2011, the biofuels industry continues to make progress, which is good news for Iowa’s economy, said Governor Terry Branstad, who spoke at the Renewable Fuels Summit in Des Moines on Tuesday.

“The renewable fuels industry plays an important role in our thriving ag economy, and it also offers a way to help provide good-paying jobs across Iowa and add value to what we produce,” said Branstad, who received enthusiastic applause when he told the audience that he rode to the Renewable Fuels Summit in an E85 vehicle.

Branstad added that he plans to be an active member of the Governors’ Biofuels Coalition, which supports efforts to decrease the nation’s dependence on imported energy resources, educate the public about biofuels, improve the environment and stimulate the national economy.

“While there are obstacles to overcome, the opportunities with biofuels are great,” Branstad said. “Government doesn’t have all the answers, and we need to work with agriculture and industry to move forward.”

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