News coverage of the recent floods suggests ethanol shortages are to blame for rising gas prices. Setting the record straight on this, the Renewable Fuels Association just released an analysis that explains the real reasons why consumers are paying more at the pump. RFA’s analysis says prices are up due to several factors including:
- A surge in crude oil prices since the start of the year.
- Typical seasonal patterns in gasoline pricing, partially reflecting the changeover to summer specifications.
- Refinery maintenance and unplanned outages.
The analysis states: “While the Midwest floods in mid-March did affect ethanol transportation and some individual facilities, this occurred at a time when ethanol inventories were at record levels. Stocks in most regions, including the Gulf Coast and East Coast, are above year-ago levels. West Coast inventories have been declining since the start of the year but are slightly above the minimum levels experienced over the last 12 months.”
To read the full analysis, click here.
COVID-19 Resources
NCGA is taking a series of actions to do our part to help contain the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19) and the economic fallout it is creating for corn farmers and our customers. Short term, this means instituting policies to protect the health and safety of our stakeholders and the broader communities we serve. Long term, we’re focused on creating solutions to help corn farmers and our customers recover from the financial impacts of this crisis.
CommonGround
CommonGround is a group of farmers connecting with consumers through conversations about science and research and personal stories about food and misinformation surrounding farming. Supported by the NCGA and state corn organizations.
SHP
The Soil Health Partnership (SHP) is a farmer-led initiative that fosters transformation in agriculture through improved soil health. Administered by NCGA the partnership has more than 220 working farms enrolled in 16 states. SHP’s mission is to utilize science and data to partner with farmers who are adopting conservation agricultural practices that improve the economic and environmental sustainability of the farm.
