By Dan Lemke
Redwood Falls, Minn. — FUMPA Biofuels, a division of Farmers Union Industries, LLC was honored as AURI’s 2006 Ag Innovator of the Year at an awards luncheon June 15 in Redwood Falls.
The forward-thinking soybean processor was “the first to open the doors of a biodiesel plant in Minnesota,” says Rose Patzer, scientist at AURI’s oils laboratory in Marshall, Minn. The annual Ag Innovator award, now in its fifth year, recognizes a Minnesota company that has demonstrated innovation in its product or process, has achieved market success and provides a positive impact on Minnesota agriculture. Previous award recipients include Pet Care Systems, Mississippi Topsoils, Minnesota Soybean Processors and SoyMor.

FUMPA Biofuels produces Northland Choice Biodiesel from its 3 million gallon-per-year plant that uses soybean oil and rendered animal fats. Its parent company also operates Central Bi-Products, an animal products renderer; Midwest Grease, a waste grease recycler; Northland Choice, producer of pet food ingredients, Pet Care Systems, manufacturer of Swheat Scoop cat litter; and Redwood Metal Works, a trailer manufacturing company.

FUMPA Biofuels “has been out front in developing new uses and innovative in trying to identify additional revenue streams,” says Teresa Spaeth, AURI executive director. “AURI has worked with them on several projects and we’re delighted to present this award to them.”

RIGHT: Don Davis, president of Farmers Union Industries, LLC, and Teresa Spaeth, AURI’s Executive Director.