Statement from Governor Gregoire on Imperium Grays Harbor Groundbreaking

For Immediate Release: October 27, 2006

�Today is an exciting day; we are moving Washington forward as a leader of a dynamic, 21st century industry. Alternative fuels will help bridge the rural and urban divide in Washington: we can grow these crops in eastern Washington, crush the seeds in places like Moses Lake and ship them across the Cascades for use in Seattle, Tacoma and Olympia.

�Imperium Grays Harbor will provide family-wage jobs and help the surrounding region diversify its economy. Our state�s economy will also benefit, as dollars that would normally be spent on foreign fuel are kept within our borders. Slated to produce 100 million gallons of biodiesel a year, this new plant puts Washington at the forefront of the biodiesel industry and brings all of us one step closer to realizing our energy independence.�

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