Walt Breitinger Times Columnist

Corn crops are predicted to reach record highs this year, leading to lower prices as supply rises above demand.

The record 16.7 billion bushel production estimate would be a blow to farmers who face a cost of up to $4.75 a bushel to grow the crop. While elevator prices now range near $3.38, some analysts fear that the actual price per bushel could be in the $2.80 to $2.90 area.

A solution to the abundant crop might rest in E15, a petroleum blend of 15% ethanol and 85% gasoline. This mixture is approved for most vehicles 2001 and newer. The fuel is generally cheaper to produce than regular gasoline, burns cleaner reducing emissions, and can lessen dependence on foreign oil.

On the negative side, fuel economy might be slightly lower while summer use could

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