Ethanol industry pioneer Merle Anderson was one of three individuals honored this week with the National Farmers Union (NFU) Meritorious Service Award for outstanding leadership and service to family agriculture.

Anderson is Chairman Emeritus of the board of directors for the American Coalition for Ethanol, which he co-founded in 1977. Known as the “Father of Ethanol”, Anderson grew up on his family’s farm in Polk County, Minnesota, where he helped his father grow potatoes before taking over the operation himself. At the age of 95 he still makes it to the annual ACE meetings whenever possible.

NFU honored Anderson as one who has “gone above and beyond to ensure that success and the well-being of family farmers, ranchers and rural communities.” Congratulations for a well-deserved honor!