The leaves are turning, the air is cool and the fall season is in full swing here in Iowa. The significance of this time of year can often be missed, but for farmers, this is one of the most important times of the year. The role that farmers play is vital to provide us all with food, fuel, fiber and more. Things we never even think about in our daily lives are impacted by the crops our state produces. You’ve probably experienced the “highway view” of corn and harvest as you travel our great state. But take a closer look, and you’ll discover the many connections you have to corn. Whether filling up your gas tank, grocery cart or a glass with water from the tap, the impact farmers have is all around you. When it comes to corn, there’s plenty to go around for fuel AND food. Corn ethanol is a renewable fuel that’s better for our environment, health and wallets and happens to be grown right in our backyards. Did you know that Iowa is the #1 producer of corn, ethanol and DDGS? DDGS or dried distillers grains is a co-product of ethanol production that is used as an animal feed ingredient that’s rich in protein, fat, minerals and vitamins. Basically, we can thank corn for the meat, dairy and eggs we all enjoy, not to mention the over 4,000 other everyday products that include corn. Across our state farmers are doing their part to protect and preserve the land for their families and future generations to come. From adopting sustainable farm practices that protect our soil like cover crops and no-till, to reducing fertilizer use with on-farm technology, Iowa farmers care about the land and water that we share. When you fill your glass with clean, healthy tap water you are trusting farmers take proper measures to protect Iowa’s water supply and also drink the same water on their farms. What else can you do to support local farmers? Choose ethanol at the pump for a healthier environment and a healthier you. Ethanol helps reduce cancer causing greenhouse gas emissions by 43% while also decreasing the amount of particulate matter, carbon monoxide and other toxins in our air – something your lungs and overall respiratory health will thank you for. Corn is all around us, especially this fall. To farmers fall means it is the time to harvest the crops they have tended to for nearly a year be harvested to produce nearly 4,000 products for you and the rest of the world.
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