By Blake Jackson
The Missouri Agricultural and Small Business Development Authority (MASBDA) has committed nearly $3.4 million in funding to enhance the distribution and use of higher blends of ethanol and biodiesel across Missouri.
This investment supports projects that involve the construction, installation, upgrade, or retrofit of fuel dispensers, pumps, storage tanks, and other related infrastructure throughout the state.
“We are pleased to partner with Missouri Soybean and Missouri Corn to increase the availability of biofuels in Missouri,” said MASBDA Executive Director Jill Wood. “These projects will create demand for two of Missouri’s top commodities, which helps growers, while also offering options for consumers.”
The funding initiative has garnered support from organizations such as the Biodiesel Coalition of Missouri and the Missouri Soybean Merchandising Council. Matt Amick, Executive Director of the Biodiesel Coalition of Missouri, emphasized the importance of these funds, noting, “The biofuels infrastructure funds are critical to providing more access to biodiesel across the state. We are thankful to the MASBDA and the state of Missouri for administering this program to support Missouri-made fuels, Missouri’s biodiesel industry, and Missouri’s farmers.”
Missouri Soybean Merchandising Council Chair Mark Lehenbauer highlighted the broader impact of biodiesel on the state’s economy, stating, “Biodiesel is a Missouri-made, renewable fuel that supports Missouri soybean farmers and provides more options for suppliers and fleets. This program is an important step in our efforts to build new demand and access for biodiesel and growth for our economy in the state.”
Several projects have been selected to receive funding, aiming to increase the availability of biodiesel blends B6 or higher. These include projects by MFA Oil Company in Palmyra, Dhanya & Tashka, LLC in Arnold, and the Scotland County Missouri Government in Memphis, among others.
Additionally, funding has been allocated for projects promoting higher ethanol blends, including E15 or higher and E85. Notable recipients include Scrivener Oil Company in Ozark, InConvenience Inc. in Burlington Junction, and Kalki, LLC in Hillsboro.
“We are excited to work with our partners to incentivize additional biofuel retail locations across the state and provide drivers with increased access to homegrown fuels,” said Missouri Corn Growers Association President Matt Lambert, a corn farmer from Laclede, Missouri.
Photo Credit: vista-mipan
Categories: Missouri, Energy