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USDA Secretary Vilsack Set to Lead USDA for Second Term

JOHNSTON, IOWA – The Iowa Renewable Fuels Association (IRFA) today congratulated U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Tom Vilsack for remaining at USDA for another term under President Obama. The next few years will be vital in determining whether energy policy continues to allow for alternatives to petroleum or whether Big Oil can turn back the clock to a virtual petroleum monopoly.

IRFA President Rick Schwarck stated: “We’re excited to have an Iowan who knows first-hand about agriculture and renewable fuels leading the USDA. Vilsack is a steadfast supporter of the Renewable Fuels Standard (RFS) and a great advocate for rural America. As such, we thank Secretary Vilsack for his willingness to serve and commend President Obama for keeping a strong leader at USDA during this critical time.”

Iowa is the leader in renewable fuels production.  Iowa has 41 ethanol refineries capable of producing over 3.7 billion gallons annually, with one wet mill and two cellulosic ethanol facilities currently under construction. In addition, Iowa has 12 biodiesel facilities with the capacity to produce 315 million gallons annually.

The Iowa Renewable Fuels Association was formed in 2002 to represent the state’s liquid renewable fuels industry. The trade group fosters the development and growth of the renewable fuels industry in Iowa through education, promotion, legislation and infrastructure development.