The test programme is funded with a $274,000 grant from the US government . The railroad is using a 20% blend of biodiesel made from beef fat with 80% conventional petroleum diesel.
The train uses about 100,000 gallons of diesel fuel a year on its daily 408 mile run.
Locomotives on the train will be carefully monitored to measure wear and tear on movable engine parts, emissions and horsepower ratings.
