Bret Shaw studies Wisconsin attitudes toward ethanol

A majority of Wisconsinites support the use of ethanol blends if it keeps dollars and jobs in the United States and reduces air pollution, according to a new study by researchers from the University of Wisconsin-Madison Department of Life Sciences Communication. But that support dropped substantially if those surveyed were told that ethanol could harm their engine or reduce gas mileage.

About two-thirds of respondents said they would not support ethanol under these conditions. It is generally believed that ethanol will not hurt newer engines, but studies have shown that it will cause minimal reductions in mileage compared to gasoline. The analysis was conducted by Bret Shaw and Michael Cacciatore, doctoral candidate in the UW-Madison Department of Life Sciences Communication.

The study received press coverage around Wisconsin:

Study Shows Wisconsin Drivers Have Mixed Views on Ethanol
Wisconsin Ag Connection
September 13, 2011

Study: Wisconsinites have mixed views on ethanol
Agri-View
September 15, 2011