A $39,757 grant awarded by Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey will enable Auburn University to determine if an oilseed crop can be successfully grown and marketed in Alabama as a biofuel and become another cash crop for the state’s farmers.

Carinata, also known as Ethiopian mustard, is grown in Canada and the northern U.S. where it is converted into a biofuel for jet engines. A cool-season crop, carinata is being researched locally to determine if Alabama farmers could grow it in between other warm-season crops.

“Agriculture has and always will be a major part of Alabama’s economy,” Ivey said. “Much of that success can be attributed to research and innovation. Providing our Alabama farmers with an alternative winter crop will enhance our state’s agricultural economy.”

The study will determine not only if carinata can be successfully grown in the state, but if farmers are willing to grow it and if there is a suitable market for the product. Also to be considered is if there is available transportation and processing facilities.

The Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs is administering the program from funds made available to the state from U.S. DOE.

“The outcome of this study could lead to new innovations, cheaper energy and new jobs in Alabama,” ADECA Director Kenneth Boswell said. “ADECA is pleased to join with Gov. Ivey in this project.”

ADECA administers a wide range of programs that support law enforcement, victim programs, economic development, water resource management, energy conservation and recreation.