Members of Dakota Plains Cooperative, a full-service agribusiness headquartered in Valley City, N.D., have voted to approve a merger with CHS Inc., Inver Grove Heights, Minn. The proposal passed with 92 percent approval and will become effective Jan. 1, 2014, pending appropriate due diligence by both organizations and final approval by the CHS board of directors.
“We are pleased the members could see the same vision and opportunities the board saw in merging with CHS," said Greg Svenningson, Dakota Plains board president. “We are excited to partner with the nation’s leading cooperative.”
Dakota Plains offers farmers and ranchers a full line of agronomy, seed, feed, and energy services and products from 15 locations in central and southeastern North Dakota. CHS said patrons of Dakota Plains should expect a smooth transition, including continuity of staffing at its locations. Ken Astrup will continue to lead the co-op as general manager.
“This is a good match for both cooperatives,” said John McEnroe, executive vice president, CHS Country Operations. “We are always interested in investments that align with the CHS commitment to helping our farmer-owners grow their businesses.”