Agtegra to build a 100,000-tonne state-of-the-art feed mill in South Dakota

USA – Agtegra Cooperative, a farmer-owned cooperative, plans to build a 100,000-ton, state-of-the-art feed mill in Faulkton, South Dakota, producing complete grind-mix bulk feed for swine and poultry using locally sourced corn, soybean meal, vitamins, and minerals, with operations expected to begin in 2027.

The investment, announced on March 11, will be located next to Agtegra’s grain elevator east of Faulkton, allowing feed to be produced where grain is grown and stored. 

By blending ingredients on-site, the cooperative aims to reduce transportation, improve efficiency, and create a more sustainable cycle from crop to livestock and back to the farm.

Agtegra, headquartered in Aberdeen, South Dakota, operates more than 70 locations across North Dakota and South Dakota and employs roughly 850 people. 

“Our goal is to provide livestock producers with a reliable, high-quality feed supply while supporting economic growth for our members and the wider community,” said Agtegra CEO Jason Klootwyk. 

He added that the cooperative’s century-long presence in the Faulkton area reflects a strong commitment to the region and its farmers.

The new mill is expected to create local jobs and expand opportunities for producers interested in growing or diversifying their swine and poultry operations. 

By focusing on local inputs and modern infrastructure, Agtegra aims to strengthen the regional livestock industry while keeping more value within the state.

Scope of the feed mill project

Construction is planned to begin soon, and the mill is expected to be operational in 2027. 

It will broaden options for farmers who want to expand or diversify into poultry or swine production. 

The mill is designed with biosecurity in mind to help prevent the spread of disease and ensure a stable feed supply.

The project also received backing from the South Dakota Governor’s Office of Economic Development.

The South Dakota Board of Economic Development approved a reinvestment payment to support livestock development tied to the new mill.

State officials said the investment strengthens local agriculture, keeps more value inside the state and supports rural communities.

Agtegra Cooperative is headquartered in Aberdeen, South Dakota.

It is one of the larger grain and farm service cooperatives in the United States, serving thousands of farmer and rancher owners across the Dakotas. 

It operates more than 70 locations and provides services ranging from grain storage to agronomy, feed and energy supply.

Beyond the Faulkton mill, Agtegra has been actively investing in its broader operations. 

In 2024 and 2025, the cooperative received a US$3 million USDA fertiliser production grant and committed matching funds to double fertiliser manufacturing capacity at facilities in Ipswich, McLaughlin and Kimball, South Dakota. 

This expansion will increase fertiliser output and storage to help farmers access more locally produced inputs.

In addition, Agtegra has expanded grain-handling capacity by adding storage space at multiple locations, increasing its ability to serve producers during busy harvest seasons and stabilising grain marketing options. 

The cooperative has also made strategic moves to grow agronomy services, acquiring additional locations to extend its reach in South Dakota.

Agtegra’s investments go beyond agriculture operations alone. 

The company is building a travel centre on the east side of Aberdeen, expected to open in late 2026, that will serve truckers, farmers and travellers while supporting community engagement.

Sign up HERE to receive our email newsletters with the latest news updates and insights from Africa and the World, and follow us on our WhatsApp channel for updates.