LINCOLN — The Nebraska Corn Growers Association (NeCGA) met recently to finalize upcoming fiscal year budgets and reaffirm priorities and programs around key issues. Priorities include expanding statewide E15, expanding demand through livestock and trade, and reduction of property taxes.
In late May of 2019, the EPA approved the year-round usage of E15, a blend of 15 percent ethanol in vehicles 2001 and newer. While E15 has expanded across the state, Nebraska still has a large potential in the broad adoption of the blend.
“We felt this upcoming year provides a number of great opportunities for the expansion of E15 and even higher-level ethanol blends,” stated Dan Nerud, a farmer from Dorchester and president of NeCGA. “There are a number of grant opportunities for retailers, residents are beginning to travel following various COVID limitations, and it supports Nebraska’s renewable biofuels industry.”
In partnership with the Nebraska Corn Board, the Association will assist in various communication and promotion opportunities to consumers. These programs will assist in promoting the usage of E15 and creating conversations regarding the positive health aspects for consumers and the renewable nature of ethanol.
In addition to ethanol, the Association continues to work through key partnerships to encourage increased corn usage through trade opportunities and livestock expansion. The Association continues to work with and support cooperators such as the U.S. Grains Council and Alliance for the Future of Agriculture.
Regarding state policy priorities, NeCGA continues to highlight the need for meaningful property tax relief.
“With the agricultural industry in a dire economic situation and losses from coronavirus increasing for Nebraska’s corn farmers, it is imperative the relief in the form of lower property taxes is passed by the Legislature,” added Nerud.
The Nebraska Corn Growers Association is a grassroots commodity organization with over 2,600 members across the state. The Association works to create and increase opportunities for Nebraska corn farmers through advocacy, education, partnerships, and leadership development. The Nebraska Corn Growers Association is a state affiliate of the National Corn Growers Association.
— Nebraska Corn Growers Association
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