Voyageurs National Park Biodiesel Program

Voyageurs National Park began its biodiesel program in September 2000 as part of a Department of Energy pilot program. Park maintenance officials were so pleased with how well the blend of 20% biodiesel (B20) worked in their 2 pickups during the first winter that they expanded their biodiesel program the following year to include all of their diesel equipment, including a barge. Initially park staff were concerned about using biodiesel in the barge since it sits unused from October to June, but they have had no trouble restarting it, and the biodiesel has significantly reduced its smoke output and diesel odors. In fact, Park Maintenance Supervisor Bill Carlson says they would use a higher biodiesel blend if it weren’t so expensive to get it and transport it to the park. Voyageurs feels it is setting a good example for environmental stewardship, especially on water ways, by incorporating biodiesel into its fuel mix.

For more information contact; Bill Carlson, Rainy District Maintenance Supervision, 218-283-9821, William_K_Carlson@nps.gov