The American Coalition for Ethanol recently honored a select group of ethanol advocates during the group’s annual conference, for their contributions and efforts to promote ethanol both on a local and a national basis.

The most prestigious award presented by ACE, the Merle Anderson Award, is given to individuals who display unmatched dedication and support to ACE and the domestic ethanol industry. This year’s award winner was Lars Herseth, who currently serves as a board member of Poet Big Stone.  Herseth partially received the award because of his efforts during his 15 years on the ACE board and his three years as president of the organization.

“His leadership, experience and expertise on legislative and policy priorities helped to strategically position the organization for several years,” said ACE Executive Vice President Brian Jennings.

The President’s Award, which is given to individuals or organizations who display principled dedication and support to ACE and to the U.S. ethanol industry, was presented to Glacial Lakes Energy LLC. Glacial Lakes produces ethanol at two South Dakota plant locations (Mina and Watertown).

“Glacial Lakes Energy has long been a community leader,” said Jennings. “This past year they have been encouraging the sale of higher blends of ethanol in their local community and beyond through the ‘E30 Challenge,’ an effort to educate and promote E30 through seminars with dealerships, technical colleges, city police and fleet managers, farmer’s unions and automotive mechanics.”

ACE also gives out a Grassroots Award, which is given to devoted individuals who often perform behind the scenes to advance the cause of ethanol. These “unsung heroes” of the U.S. ethanol industry and agriculture are recognized with this award which was presented to Rick Schwarck of Absolute Energy in St. Ansgar, Iowa. 

“Rick is an industry leader through and through. He is always the first in line to lead efforts to spread the word about the benefits of ethanol; from attending fly-ins, speaking at events, working with EPA, and coming up with innovative ways to share ethanol’s message, Rick is always ready to inform others in the most persuasive way possible,” said Jennings.