Childers starts trial planting of agave

In Childers, Australia, growers are studying if a plant better known as a main component for tequila can be used to make ethanol. Two cane growers are working with South Australian firm Ausagave and Central Queensland University (CQU) to test run the growth of the agave tequilana plant in the area. The trials will determine if it is economically viable to grow the plant in Childers. Ausagave Managing Director Don Chambers said trial planting will be in cane growing areas, which has similar infrastructure requirements as agave. (April 23, 2009)