In this issue ...

By Edgar Olson
Executive Director

The arrival of April heralds the beginning of another planting season — and the arrival of the spring issue of Ag Innovation News. This issue highlights a number of initiatives and activities that show promise in creating new markets for Minnesota crops.

Among the articles is a report on AURI’s efforts to work with the state’s ethanol industry to find extra sources of revenue from producer-owned corn ethanol plants. Minnesota is among the nation’s leaders in ethanol production, but most in the industry recognize the need to squeeze more profits from ethanol byproducts.

Corn is not the only raw material for ethanol production. An effort is underway to assess the feasibility of producing ethanol from grains such as wheat and barley. In areas of the state where corn isn’t king, this may hold some potential.

Soybeans continue to prove a versatile crop. You’ll meet a Redwood Falls woman building a nice business making scented candles from soybean oil. You’ll be introduced to an industry-leading Minnesota company that sees potential for soybean oil in their anti-corrosion business. AURI is also involved in an oilseed industry study that will show emerging trends and market opportunities for soybean, corn, flax and other oilseeds.

Soybeans are hot in the health food market right now, as the FDA recently approved a heart-healthy claim for some soy-based foods.  The back-cover story shows how the Baby Boomer craze for nutraceuticals is increasing demand for soy and other grains.

Grape production isn’t a large industry in Minnesota yet, but it is growing. We’ll introduce you to an 86-year-old grape-breeding pioneer whose hybrids are receiving international recognition. With more cold-country varieties suitable for fines wines, we’re supporting a U of M research center to test wines from locally-grown grapes.

Of course, our regular features include Elsewhere in Ag Utilization as well as Ag Web Sites. We hope you find the information useful and enjoy reading it as much as we enjoy bringing it to you.