The history of alternative fuel is deeply rooted in the Midwest, and POET is helping to bring that proud history to light for about 5,000 South Dakota fourth graders.

Alternative energy lessons tackling subjects such as ethanol, wind and hydroelectricity as well as conservation and other green practices have been added to the 2011 “South Dakota Road Trip,” a 13-week virtual tour of South Dakota used in fourth grade classrooms to learn about the state’s history.

“South Dakota and entire Midwest has had a profound impact on our nation’s energy supply, and that impact will grow many times over in the future,” POET CEO Jeff Broin said. “I’m glad that POET can help students learn about that rich history and hope it will inspire some of them to get involved in this exciting field in the future.”

Through the lessons, which start in January, students travel across South Dakota learning about significant historical figures, events, industries and culture. Along the way, they’ll stop at a farm, an ethanol plant and a racetrack to learn about the different stages of ethanol production. Students will also stop at a windmill to learn about the evolution of wind energy and the Oahe Dam to learn about hydroelectric power, among other stops. There is also a health element in the program.

The project was developed by Education Resource Center of South Dakota in partnership with Avera Health. Dakota State University provided graphic design and programming. POET sponsored the alternative energy sections.

“Students learn about the environment and healthy habits related to the town’s name and history, making it a fun and interesting way to learn about healthy lifestyles,” said Marsha Kucker, owner of Education Resource Center of South Dakota.

The curriculum is being finalized for use in January 2011. If you would like to get a copy or enroll your student, please contact Julia Miller at (605) 256-5555 or Julia.miller@dsu.edu.

About POET
POET, the largest ethanol producer in the world, is a leader in biorefining through its efficient, vertically integrated approach to production. The 23-year-old company has a production capacity of more than 1.7 billion gallons of ethanol and 9 billion pounds of high-protein animal feed annually from 27 production facilities nationwide. POET also operates a pilot-scale cellulosic ethanol plant, which uses corn cobs and light stover as feedstock, and will commercialize the process in Emmetsburg, Iowa. For more information, visit http://www.poet.com.

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