Construction of a corn ethanol facility in Turner County is scheduled to begin next summer. The plant, expected to employ 50 people, is expected to produce 50 million gallons of ethanol a year.

Members of Georgia Alternative Energy Cooperative, Inc., the Ashburn Turner County Chamber and Development Authority and other officials and citizens attended an announcement ceremony Thursday on the site south of Sycamore and the Sycamore Detention Center on U.S. Highway 41.

“This is a major development for Turner County and the region,” said Shelley Zorn, president of the Turner County Economic Developer and Ashburn Turner County Chamber of Commerce. “Most everyone agrees that any group that will keep American dollars in American pockets is a good thing.”

The cooperative of 236 farmers, some of whom are from Tift County, formed a year ago, conducted feasibility studies and visited other ethanol plants. Within the next six months, the group will complete zoning and EPD requires and conduct an equity drive to sell stock. Site improvements that include land, buildings, equipment, rail, water, sewer and gas total $90 million.

Proponents of the plant said its construction and operation will benefit not only the 50 people who will work there but the farmers in the region who provide the corn. Approximately 18 million bushels of corn are needed each year to operate the plant, a substantial portion of which will come from Georgia farmers. The plant will also contribute to the area’s economy.

“Biofuel is at the vanguard for providing clean, renewable energy for Georgians,” said Ken Stewart, commissioner of the Georgia Department of Economic Development. “Georgia Alternative Energy Cooperative’s strategy of partnering with local corn producers stands to benefit Georgia’s farmers as well as our state’s many energy consumers.

“Producing our own clean energy keeps Georgia’s dollars in the state, boosting our economy.”