N.M. to develop biofuels plan

SANTA FE (AP) - New Mexico's elected officials want to develop a strategic plan to make the state a leader in the biofuels industry.

Gov. Bill Richardson said New Mexico is in a good position when it comes to biofuels, given its combination of economic policies, business infrastructure, natural resources and scientific expertise.

State leaders and the Southwestern Biofuels Association are planning a series of meetings over the next three months that will bring together dozens of experts from industry, science, education, agriculture and government to begin developing a roadmap for growing the state's biofuels industry.

Officials expect to have a proposal completed by mid-April. The public will have an opportunity to comment on the plan.