By Angela Kolden
angela@ccreporter.com
July 18 was a significant day for the North Dakota Soybean Processors Plant in Casselton as it marked the first day of receiving soybeans.
According to Bill McBee, Commercial Manager for the facility, ten trucks were received which allowed the plant to test its equipment and processes live.
“All have demonstrated strong performance,” he said, stating NDSP is on schedule to become fully operational later this summer. “Receiving soybeans is just the first step.”
The NDSP facility has the capacity to receive 50,000 bushels per hour and will process 125,000 bushels per day.
“Receiving our first truck is a huge milestone,” McBee said. “The NDSP team and contractors have been working hard over the past two years to get to this point. It has taken dedication and expertise of the many involved, especially the NDSP team, our owners (CGB and MnSP), our expert contractors, and the support of the Casselton community.”
The NDSP plant will provide North Dakota and Minnesota soybean producers with a year-round market for their crop at competitive prices.
According to McBee, producers no longer need to rely on the on the export market for demand. They can deliver their beans easily and conveniently in Casselton.
He said the plant’s staging area accommodates 70 trucks but their goal is to limit lines and wait times.
“Our priority is farmer-first customer service, with checks printed on-site either next day or same day,” the commercial manager explained. “The NDSP merchandising team of Zach Spilker, Mitch Heimark and Ben Hiam welcome and enjoy the opportunity to hear from our customers as we establish our roots in Casselton and begin building strong relationships with local producers.”
McBee said NDSP has already hired strong talent locally and there are career opportunities still available. Once fully staffed, NDSP will employee 75 full-time employees. Available positions may be viewed at: ndsoy.com