As a boater from southern Maryland, I read Chris D. Dollar's latest boating column with interest ("Outdoors: Polish skills before tackling busy ramps," July 16). But he cited some inaccurate claims from the Boat Owners Association of the United States about ethanol-blended fuel.
In reality, the Environmental Protection Agency is not asking boaters to change fuels. Fifteen percent ethanol blends (E15) are not approved for use in marine engines, nor are they sold at typical marinas.
Stations that sell E15 for cars and trucks all have clearly labeled pumps, offering drivers a more affordable option, but reminding boaters to use a different blend. The misfueling myth is just a smoke screen for arguments against clean, renewable options.
Standard blends of 10 percent ethanol (E10), on the other hand, are great for boats. Mercury Marine, the world's largest marine manufacturer, calls E10 a "superior marine fuel" because it helps keep systems dry. The president of CK Motorsports says that ethanol boosts performance and extends the life of engine parts 25 to 50 percent. I have fueled my own boat with E10 for as long as it's been available.
I'm proud to use biofuels, and not just because American farmers like me are helping to replace foreign oil imports. Ethanol has replaced MTBE as a fuel additive, which means more power without contaminating our water.
It also reduces greenhouse gases. And earth-friendly ethanol doesn't pollute our beaches or destroy valuable marine ecosystems like the Chesapeake Bay or our lakes and rivers the way oil can if spilled. So the next time you're on the water, fuel up with confidence on American-made biofuel.
Chip Bowling, Newburg
The writer is a corn grower and president of the National Corn Growers Association.