The Globe Gazette - 20 June, 2006
ALGONA — East Fork BioDiesel in Kossuth County is getting $400,000 in Iowa Economic Development funding for a biodiesel plant outside Algona.
The money can be used for a feasibility study, site preparation, construction or computer hardware and software, State Rep. Delores Mertz of Ottosen said.
“The state grant approved today will make sure the East Fork BioDiesel plant gets off the ground,” Mertz said. “This operation will help the local soybean market.
Economic dependence on value-added agriculture is a vital reason for Iowa to “take a leadership role in renewable fuel production” of biodiesel as well as ethanol, Mertz said.
“Iowa is the number one producer of corn and soybeans and renewable fuel operations right here give us a better market share,” she said.
The $69 million biodiesel operation will produce 60 million gallons a year and and create glycerin as a co-product, using soy oil and other locally available feedstock, according to state officials.
East Fork BioDiesel will create 30 jobs averaging $17.68 an hour.
The company is also seeking enterprise zone benefits.
“Expanding production and markets for renewable fuels is the key to growing our rural economy and keeping young people here,” State Rep. Marcie Frevert said. “I’m pleased the state was able to partner with East Fork BioDiesel to make this project a reality.”