It is pushing and shoving time in Washington, D.C., over the use of ethanol.

Beyond the ongoing arguments whether it ultimately saves energy or not and what effect it has on food prices, there is a battle waging about the amount of ethanol that should be used in gasoline — which could have a huge effect on boaters.

The Environmental Protection Agency is considering upping the present amount of ethanol that is blended in gasoline from 10 percent to 15 percent at the urging of ethanol producers.

The boating industry, represented by the National Marine Manufacturers Association, as well as other groups like the Outdoor Power Equipment Institute, contend the move would create major problems. The marine association says some 12 million boat engines would be adversely affected.

At the E10 level, both groups reported problems with plugged carburetors and filters and with some kinds of fuel tanks. Newer engines are designed to run on E10, but the industries maintain E15 would cause great harm to the vast number of engines that were not designed to run on it. They cite the fact no significant tests have been done examining that impact.

The EPA has now extended an earlier deadline for public comments until July 20 and will make a decision by Dec. 1. To register your thoughts, go to www.epa.gov/otaq/ additive.htm.