8/26/2005
Idaho Transportation Department's Hailey maintenance facility switches to biodiesel
SHOSHONE - This summer, the Idaho Transportation Department's Hailey facility began using B20 biodiesel in its fleet of maintenance vehicles. B20 biodiesel is a blend of 20 percent bio-fuel and 80 percent petroleum diesel.
The biofuel portion of the mixture is typically produced from agricultural products such as soybeans, rapeseed, mustard seed and coconut, or from recycled cooking oil from fast food restaurants and other organic byproducts.
"ITD fuel systems management should be applauded for making the switch from conventional fuels to biodiesel," said Devin Rigby, District 4 Engineer. "Choosing to use a clean burning alternative fuel, produced from domestic, renewable resources, is no small thing. Our district is proud to be part of a positive commitment to helping preserve our resources and environment."
Biodiesel can extend the life of diesel engines because it has more lubricating qualities than petroleum diesel fuel. Biodiesel is biodegradable and non-toxic, and reduces carbon dioxide emissions all benefits to the environment.
With this station, the transportation department will use approximately 17,000 gallons of B20 a year. The program to convert to biofuel began in the fall of 2005 and now includes maintenance facilities in Boise and Caldwell.