The Agricultural Utilization Research Institute (AURI), named The Chippewa Valley Ethanol Company (CVEC) of Benson, Minn., its 2017 Ag Innovator of the Year. The award, which has been given annually for the past 15 years, will be accepted by CVEC Board Chair, David Thompson and General Manager Chad Friese at the company's Board meeting on Monday, November 20, in Benson.