2nd Annual Renewable Energy Forum- Distilling the Truth on Ethanol

Sky-rocketing gasoline prices and unstable oil markets make renewable energy a front and center issue in the 21st century. Ethanol is at the forefront of rural politics. The current construction of 41 ethanol facilities demands a broader understanding of how corn-based energy sources influence the farmer, the energy user, and the environment. Current research aims to answer questions about the most efficient and environmentally friendly sources of renewable energy.

The forum will present both sides of the ethanol/biofuel controversy in an informative and educational manner. A question and answer session at the end of the forum will promote dialogue and interactions between students and expert presenters. This event will be free and open to all University students and members of the surrounding community.

Dan Owens, The Center for Rural Affairs
Tppic:Past, present, and future farm policy of corn production and ethanol potential in the Midwest.

David Kolsrud, CORNer Stone Farmers Co-op
Topic: The current state of ethanol activity in Minnesota, ownership models of farmer cooperatives, and how ethanol can fortify rural economies.

Clarence Lehman, Department of Applied Economics at the University of Minnesota
Topic: The external costs of ethanol in water use and energy inputs, new processing technologies, and the future of the industry.


The forum will be located in the Mississippi Room of Coffman Memorial Union on the Minneapolis Campus at the University of Minnesota on December 1st at 5:30 PM