Ag Secretary Naig Visits Kardes in Monticello

Iowa Ag Secretary Mike Naig was in Monticello on Wednesday to visit Kardes Convenience Store. 

Kardes was announced as the winner of the Ethanol Award earlier this year – one of two 2026 Iowa Renewable Fuels Marketing Awards. The annual awards recognize fuel retailers for outstanding leadership in expanding access to renewable fuels, educating consumers, and strengthening Iowa’s ethanol and biodiesel markets. 

The Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship says Karde’s Convenience Store has demonstrated leadership in expanding renewable fuel access and consumer education in Monticello through targeted infrastructure investment and hands-on community engagement. The Cox family has been at this location in Monticello since 1984. Mike Cox bought the business from his father and took over in 2012. Last summer, Karde’s installed E15 pumps – bringing the first clearly branded Unleaded 88 fueling options to the community. Building on that investment, Karde’s partnered with the Jones County Corn Growers to host a pump promotion in October, where consumers fueling with Unleaded 88 received gift cards and education about ethanol-blended fuels. As the store owner, Mike Cox participated as a celebrity pumper, engaging directly with customers to answer questions and highlight fuel choices. The promotion resulted in around 900 additional gallons sold above the store’s daily average. Another E15 pump promotion was held on Wednesday.

Secretary Naig met with owner Mike Cox to present the award during Wednesday’s event, which was organized by the Jones County Corn Growers. The Jones County Beef Producers were also on hand grilling burgers.

photo courtesy of Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship