Biofuel Energy Corp. has cut about 40 full-time workers at its idled ethanol plant in Fairmont, Minn., according to a news release.

The Fairmont Sentinel says about 15 workers will remain at the Buffalo Lake plant -- primarily at its grain storage facility.

"The availability and price of grain locally don't support restarting the plant at this time," said Mark Zoeller, vice president and general counsel for Biofuel.

Biofuel ceased ethanol production at the plant last September amid high corn prices.