AFBF Economist: Year-Round E15 Could Give Bumper Corn Crop a Big Boost

AFBF economist Faith Parum breaks down the potential impact of the proposed policy change to allow year-round sales of E15 biofuel.

WASHINGTON, D.C. (RFD-TV) — With a bumper corn crop this season, U.S. farmers are searching for ways to expand market opportunities — and one potential boost could come from year-round sales of E15, a higher ethanol blend that experts say could lift corn demand, lower fuel prices, and strengthen overall farm income.

American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF) economist Faith Parum joined us on Thursday’s Market Day Report to break down the potential impact of the policy change.

Parum explained that allowing E15 sales year-round would likely increase corn demand, since ethanol production relies heavily on the crop. The move could also help consumers by offering a lower-cost, cleaner-burning fuel option at the pump — benefits that could ripple throughout the rural economy.

Currently, E15 cannot be sold nationwide during summer months due to environmental regulations tied to air quality standards, a restriction farm groups and ethanol advocates have long pushed to remove.

Looking ahead, Parum noted that even as electric vehicle adoption grows and gasoline demand levels off, biofuel policy remains key to sustaining markets for American farmers. She said maintaining and expanding ethanol access is an important way to ensure a strong, reliable outlet for corn in the years ahead.

Related Stories
University of Nebraska President Dr. Jeffrey Gold joined us to discuss seasonal affective disorder, winter mental health, and practical strategies for maintaining well-being in rural communities.
FWSSR Communications Director Matt Brockman discusses the event’s competitions, safety preparations, and family-friendly activities during the opening weekend.
From Junior Heifer Shows to Mustang Magic competitions, the 23-day event brings together 4-H and FFA participants, livestock enthusiasts, and families to celebrate North Texas’ rich Western heritage.
CLAAS Senior Vice President for the Americas Region Eric Raby joined us to preview the new docuseries “CLAAS: Made for More,” premiering tonight at 9 PM ET only on RFD-TV.
The Farm Bureau is making an urgent call to Congress for more farm support. Colton Lacina with Farmers National Company joined us to discuss farmland values and how market dynamics for the year ahead reflect stabilization rather than collapse.
President Donald Trump speaks at the World Economic Forum in Davos, addressing SNAP spending, tariff threats against Europe, market reactions, and the upcoming USMCA review.
From meatpacking settlements to landmark NEPA rulings, Roger McEowen outlines the top legal developments in 2025 that will shape agriculture in the years ahead.
Alan Bjerga with the National Milk Producers Federation joined us to review new policies and regulations supporting the dairy industry and what they mean for the year ahead.
Corn growers are turning to ethanol, E15 expansion, and export markets to help absorb record supplies and stabilize prices. Farm leaders discuss low-carbon ethanol demand, flex-fuel vehicle challenges, input costs, and the role of USMCA as producers look for market relief in the year ahead.
While short-term volatility remains a risk, softer ocean freight rates in 2026 could improve export margins.

Agriculture Shows
Special 3-part series tells the story of the Claas family’s legacy, which changed agriculture forever.
From soil to harvest. Top Crop is an all-new series about four of the best farmers in the world—Dan Luepkes, of Oregan, Illinois; Cory Atley, of Cedarville, Ohio; Shelby Fite, of Jackson Center, Ohio; Russell Hedrick, of Hickory, North Carolina—reveals what it takes for them to make a profitable crop. It all starts with good soil, patience, and a strong planter setup.
Champions of Rural America is a half-hour dive into the legislative priorities for Rural America. Join us as we interview members of the Congressional Western Caucus to learn about efforts in Washington to preserve agriculture and tackles the most important topics in the ag industry on Champions of Rural America!
Featuring members of Congress, federal and state officials, ag and food leaders, farmers, and roundtable panelists for debates and discussions.