First United Ethanol of Georgia, better known as FUEL, will host U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack on Monday, October 25th. Secretary Vilsack will be accompanied by U.S. Representative Sanford Bishop and U.S. Representative Jim Marshall.

“We are very excited about this opportunity to speak face to face with one of the most important policy makers in America. We look forward to discussing key issues that we as a company and the entire industry are facing, “ said Murray Campbell, CEO of FUEL.

Secretary Vilsack’s visit to the 100 million gallon per year ethanol plant located in Southwest Georgia coincides with his announcement on biofuels initiatives yesterday at the National Press Club in Washington, D.C. He discussed the need for a strong, vibrant rural economy, and biofuels role in making that a reality. “We can do better. We have to do better. Rural America is where we will do better,” said Vilsack.

“Secretary Vilsack’s visit to First United Ethanol in Georgia signifies that the administration understands that ethanol production is about more than just square states in the corn belt,” said Matt Hartwig with the Renewable Fuels Association. “It’s about economic opportunity and environmental stewardship in all parts of the country, including the southeast.”

First United Ethanol, LLC began production in October 2008. It is owned by over 860 investors with the majority living in rural Georgia and Florida.