The old food vs. fuel debate never ends. I am of the opinion that our farmers and agribusinesses can more than compensate for the needs of both. For example, take this announcement from ADM. They’re going to increase oilseed crushing capacity at a number of plants. I’m sure this is just one example of how we’ll continue to develop alternative fuel sources while still feeding the world.

Archer Daniels Midland Company will increase its North American oilseed crushing capacity through expansions at oilseed crushing plants in the U.S. and Canada. Five soybean crushing plants will be expanded in Quincy, Illinois; Frankfort, Indiana; Mexico, Missouri; Fremont, Nebraska and Des Moines, Iowa. Two canola crushing plants will also be expanded in Velva, North Dakota and Lloydminster, Alberta, Canada. The expansions will support ADM’s two North American biodiesel facilities in Mexico, Missouri and Velva, North Dakota. “Expanding our crush capacity will enable us to meet the increased demands for vegetable oil and oilseed proteins, driven by the world’s growing need for energy and food,” stated Scott Fredericksen, President-North American Oilseed Processing.