New Trade Association Formed for North America Camelin...( Energy crop growing in prominence as ...)

Energy crop growing in prominence as viable vehicle and jet fuel feedstock

GREAT FALLS, Mont., March 3 /PRNewswire/ -- Thirteen seed companies, processors and researchers of camelina have formed the first trade association focused on camelina production and processing in North America. The North American Camelina Trade Association (NACTA) will work to promote research, production and the development of new markets for camelina - a relatively new energy crop in North America that has exciting potential.

Camelina sativa, also known as gold of pleasure or false flax, is a member of the mustard family and a distant relative to canola. It is a fast-growing, short-seasoned crop that requires less water and fewer inputs than many crops. Its high oil content and other properties make it a great fit for biodiesel production, and interest in the crop has grown significantly in recent years.

"The formation of the North American Camelina Trade Association is another important step in building a strong, sustainable foundation for camelina production in the U.S. and Canada," said Scott Johnson, general manager of Sustainable Oils, and president of NACTA. "We are excited about camelina's future for farmers and its potential for reducing North America's dependence on imported oil. Together, we can achieve those goals more quickly and effectively."

The new organization brings together representatives across the camelina production and processing spectrum from the U.S. and Canada. NACTA leadership will be:

• President: Scott Johnson, general manager, Sustainable Oils
• Treasurer: Craig Parker, CEO, Willamette Biomass Processors
• Secretary: David King, COO, Great Plains -- The Camelina Company

The first project funded by NACTA, through a grant from the Montana Department of Agricultur
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