Farmers urged to ask for biodiesel on National Biodiesel Day

ANKENY, Iowa – St. Patrick’s Day isn’t the only date for celebration this week – at least not for biodiesel supporters. National Biodiesel Day is March 18, and the Iowa Biodiesel Board is taking the opportunity to remind farmers to ask for and use biodiesel as they head into spring planting.

“We’re challenging every farmer in Iowa to request that their fuel distributor offer biodiesel blends this spring,” said Grant Kimberley, IBB executive director and a soybean farmer who uses biodiesel on his farm. “A thriving biodiesel market helps everyone in the ag sector.”

Research from Informa Economics shows biodiesel adds 74 cents a bushel to the price of soybeans. However, the increase in demand for soybean oil also benefits livestock farmers by lowering soybean meal feed costs for livestock producers by at least $25 a ton. Also, more than 1.1 billion pounds of animal fats went into biodiesel production in 2013 by U.S. companies, adding value to the livestock industry.

“I urge farmers to recognize the importance that renewable energy has in a strong and vibrant farming future,” said Ron Heck, a soybean farmer from Perry, Iowa and an officer of IBB. “Those of us in the farming community must walk-the-walk by supporting clean energy solutions on the farm.”

Heck noted he has used biodiesel on his own farm for many years. But a poll of more than 360 Iowa farmers conducted this winter by the Iowa Soybean Association finds room for increased biodiesel use. About 41 percent said they use biodiesel in their farming operations. “Not readily available” was the primary reason cited for not using the fuel. However, availability has improved the last several years due to favorable state legislation.

Biodiesel can be used in any diesel engine in blends of up to 20 percent (B20). All of the major Original Equipment Manufacturers producing engines and equipment for the U.S. agricultural market support B20 or higher in their warranty position statements.

Kimberley said biodiesel blends such as B5 (5 percent biodiesel) can restore needed lubricity to Ultra Low Sulfur Diesel, helping to extend engine life. He also said biodiesel blends are usually cost-competitive due to strong state legislation.

“Whatever you may have heard about biodiesel years ago, rest assured that fuel quality is high, the price is affordable and biodiesel is supported by the OEMs,” Heck said.

March 18 is National Biodiesel Day because it is the birthday of Rudolf Diesel, the man who invented the engine that bears his name.  He ran early models on peanut oil, and was a visionary for renewable fuel.

Biodiesel is an advanced biofuel made from agricultural byproducts and co-products.  The Iowa Biodiesel Board is a state trade association representing the biodiesel industry.

Want to show your support?  Join the Biodiesel Backers!