A Conversation with CHS President and CEO Jay Debertin

Why It Matters

A nationwide E15 mandate would lock in a reliable demand stream for U.S. corn, strengthening farm incomes and rural economies amid trade and energy volatility.

Key Takeaways

• Year‑round E15 could boost domestic ethanol demand for corn growers
• CHS seeks legislative certainty for retailers to sell E15 nationwide
• High energy and fertilizer prices strain farmer finances and mental health
• Early fertilizer contracts helped some growers mitigate recent price spikes
• CHS emphasizes risk‑management tools like forward contracts for inputs

Summary

In a recent interview, CHS President and CEO Jay Debertin discussed the push for year‑round E15 gasoline and its potential to create a stable, domestic market for ethanol, a key outlet for U.S. corn producers. He framed the initiative as a strategic response to trade uncertainties and rising energy costs, emphasizing that broader ethanol blending would benefit both farmers and consumers.

Debertin highlighted three core arguments: first, that consistent E15 availability would generate long‑term demand for corn‑based ethanol; second, that legislative certainty is essential so retailers can invest in the infrastructure needed to dispense E15 without fear of future bans; and third, that high energy and fertilizer prices are squeezing farmer margins, making market‑based solutions like forward contracts increasingly vital. He noted that many growers had secured spring fertilizer supplies before the recent price surge, partially cushioning the impact.

Notable remarks included, “More ethanol blended into gasoline is better for agriculture and for consumers,” and “Farmers need certainty that retailers can sell E15 for years to come.” Debertin also stressed the mental‑health toll on agricultural communities and the importance of cooperative communication to navigate cost pressures.

The conversation underscores that policy certainty on E15 could stabilize corn markets, bolster rural economies, and reduce reliance on volatile export channels. CHS’s focus on risk‑management tools signals a broader industry shift toward hedging strategies that protect farmers from price volatility while supporting domestic renewable‑fuel demand.

Original Description

On the Monday, March 30th, 2026 episode of AOA, we sat down for a conversation with CHS President and CEO Jay Debertin to discuss the prospects for year-round E15, the overall ag economy outlook and more.