Oilseeds Can Be Viable Option for Growers

At an oilseed workshop in Hartline, growers were able to learn more about whether or not oilseeds are a viable option for them.

Mary Beth Lang with WSDA said oilseed production can help a burgeoning market in the state.

“We would like to increase our ability to grow our own fuels in Washington State and oilseeds are a great feedstock for creating biodiesel.”

Lang said there has been a lot of work done to create the infrastructure to handle the oilseed potential of Washington and there are ample crush and biodiesel production facilities.

Ultimately, though, it will come down to the bottom line, something Lang acknowledges.

“Over the years we have developed some strong demand here in state by businesses who want to buy Washington oilseeds. I think reducing the risk that there’s no market, there’s no price is an important thing that we can accomplish.”

If growers have any questions or concerns, Lang said it’s important to reach out to WSU, WSDA, or another entity that can answer the questions.

If you have a story idea for the Washington Ag Network, call (509) 547-1618, or e-mail krounce@cherrycreekradio.com.