Wild Rice Harvesters Paying High Price For Fuel

Wild Rice Harvesters Paying High Price For Fuel

Friday, August 17, 2007 at 16:19

An expert in the wild rice industry says northern harvesters are paying more money this year for gas.

Terry Hilary of Kitaski Foods explains the problem lies with the Provincial Government’s recent promotion of ethanol fuel. It was decided that all regular gas in Saskatchewan must contain at least 10% of ethanol in its mix.

Hilary says that’s something that doesn’t work well with engines on wild-rice boats. He says the problem is that ethanol, which is similar to alcohol, doesn’t mix with engine oil.

He says that means harvesters are forced to buy premium gas, which is usually ten cents more a liter.

Hilary says the issue only came to light recently with the beginning of the harvest season.