NEWS RELEASE
Contact: Rita Shade Simpson
Clerk of the Board/Administrator
Salem County Board of Chosen Freeholders
92 Market Street. Salem, N.J. 08079
Contact: Freeholder Michael Facemyer
Potential Site for Ethanol Plant Discussed
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE August 6, 2001
SALEM Freeholder Michael Facemyer announced today he is setting up a meeting between Salem County growers and representatives of Carneys Point and Pennsville to discuss potential sites for a proposed farmer-owned ethanol plant. He said he will also invite representatives from Dupont Chambers Works to attend.
"It is appropriate to explore all opportunities," said Facemyer. "I am also confident that the talented people at Dupont can provide invaluable insights that would help growers as they proceed to bring their vision into reality."
Facemyer and Freeholder Sue Bestwick met with Salem County growers last week to learn more about the proposed farmer-cooperative that would build and manage an ethanol plant. Ethanol is a corn-based environmental friendly additive that "stretches" gasoline. Facemyer and Bestwick offered the Countys economic development resources to assist the agricultural community in this venture.
"I am also encouraging Salem Countys growers to not close the door on pursuing potential sites in Gloucester County. A location near a refinery there would be compatible with an ethanol plant," said Facemyer.
"The important thing is to keep focused on creating a farmer-owned facility, and to locate the ethanol plant where it is easily accessible to corn growers in Salem County, as well as the grain growers in the Delmarva Peninsula. Farmers want their grain products to be easily and economically transported to the processing site."
Freeholder Bestwick said Congressman Frank LoBiondo, whose staff also took part in the meeting with growers, is identifying various federal monies that can be used for this type of economic development project. Bestwick said she would like to see New Jerseys congressional delegation join hands in a bipartisan spirit to ensure maximum assistance to the farm community.
"Our agricultural industry in Salem County is a primary contributor to our Countys economy, open space, and rural way of life. Agriculture is New Jerseys third largest industry," said Freeholder Bestwick.
"The prospect of a farmer-owned ethanol plant is so exciting that it should create solidified support from all elected leaders, regardless of party affiliation. This is our opportunity to help the farm community remain viable."