Thirteen seed companies, processors and researchers of camelina have
formed the first trade association focused on production and processing
of the biofuel feedstock in North America.
The North American Camelina Trade Association (NACTA) will work to
promote research, production and the development of new markets for the
relatively new energy crop.
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 good 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.
The first project funded by NACTA is an effort to have camelina meal,
the byproduct of camelina oil extraction, approved by the FDA as a food
source for feedlot animals, including cattle, pigs and chickens.
Other big news for the industry includes the completion of a
demonstration flight in January by Japan Airlines using camelina-based
jet fuel.
Public and private researchers are focused on increasing the
yield and oil content of camelina, as well as identifying the most
effective production practices. In 2008, more than 100 research trials
and studies were conducted across North America, according to NACTA.
The association’s first meeting is planned for October 2009.
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