Over the past 18 months, in my capacity as the executive director of Falls City Economic Development & Growth Enterprise, Inc., I have been actively pursuing opportunities to position Falls City and Southeast Nebraska as a focal point for sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) development. This fuel has the potential to reduce aviation emissions by capitalizing on Nebraska-grown agricultural byproducts that have previously gone unused. I have been attending industry conferences and conducting in-depth market research to gain insight into this rapidly developing industry and the ways it can drive economic development across our region.
Our new Mid-America Rail Campus, located just south of Falls City, represents a significant opportunity to support SAF production, and we see this as a chance to create an anchor project that will stimulate local growth. With support from USDA grants, we have conducted research into local feedstocks, such as corn stover, to attract SAF developers. The potential economic impact of SAF on our community is profound — supporting jobs, boosting local income, and driving innovation right here in Southeast Nebraska.
U.S. Rep. Mike Flood’s leadership, as a founding member of the bipartisan Congressional Sustainable Aviation Caucus and his support for SAF, sends a strong message about the importance of sustainable energy solutions for both our economy and our climate goals. By advancing SAF production, we can bring a new and exciting wave of development to communities like Falls City, ensuring that Nebraska continues to be at the forefront of agricultural and energy innovation.
Lucas Froeschl, Falls City, Nebraska
Executive Director
Falls City Economic Development & Growth Enterprise