Minnesota State Mankato's Agroecology Class Visits Guardian Energy

Burnsville, Nov 7 - A group of students from Minnesota State University, Mankato's agroecology class visited Guardian Energy yesterday, the fifth time the class has toured the plant to learn about ethanol production in the last seven years.

"We're always delighted to welcome students from Minnesota State Mankato's Agroecology program. We take pride in our production process and enjoy showcasing how we're able to convert a local natural resource, such as corn, into a renewable fuel and valuable co-products."

"These tours also give us an opportunity to communicate with students about the vital role Minnesota's ethanol industry plays in fortifying rural economies, reducing carbon emissions, providing options and lowering prices at the pump, in addition to promoting energy independence," said Jeanne McCaherty, CEO of Guardian Energy.

The university's agroecology class first visited Guardian Energy in 2018. It made subsequent visits in 2019, 2021, 2022 and 2024.

Chris Ruhland, biological sciences professor at Minnesota State Mankato, accompanied his students for each of those plant tours.

"Students in my Agroecology class understand that developing renewable fuels is becoming an issue of global concern. We spend quite a bit of time talking about the energy that is contained within starch molecules, and seeing the production of ethanol on an industrial scale is an eye-opening experience."

"The team at Guardian Energy in Janesville have always been transparent about the process and have answered all questions asked of them. An incredibly educational experience for these college students," he said.

Ruhland's students weren't the first from Minnesota State Mankato to tour Guardian Energy this year. In March, an environmental assessment class visited the plant.