Veneman Announces Bioenergy Funds

December 17, 2001

Agriculture Secretary Ann M. Veneman announced over $260 million in loan and grant funds for 24 states to boost bioenergy production, expand rural business ventures and improve economic and community development.

To illustrate the administration's support for ethanol and biofuels, Veneman arrived at a Minnesota press conference in an ethanol-powered automobile with Minnesota Agriculture Commissioner Gene Hugoson. Veneman spoke at the Minnesota Agri-Growth Council.

"This administration strongly supports renewable fuels such as ethanol and biodiesel as important parts of the nation's energy plan," Veneman said. "The funds we are announcing today will help communities produce alternative fuels and strengthen rural economies."