BATH, S.D. (AP) – The Wheat Growers grain and agronomy cooperative is planning a $3.2 million facility in northeastern South Dakota to train members about the latest innovations and technologies in agriculture.
The facility will be near the co-op's Grebner Grain Terminal between Aberdeen and Bath. It will feature a classroom-style display and demonstration area with seating for about 60 people, and will have the ability to stream live video to other Wheat Growers facilities. The space also might be rented out for community events, co-op Regional Manager Phil Gilbert told the American News.
“We also see the center being used by educational institutions such as South Dakota State University, Lake Area Technical institute and Mitchell Technical Institute for training and education,” Steve Briggs, Wheat Growers senior vice president for agronomy and corporate marketing, said in a statement.
Wheat Growers has 5,400 members in South Dakota and eastern North Dakota who grow wheat, corn and soybeans. The new facility will be the co-op's main work area for equipment maintenance, and will have an area where members can bring equipment for modifications such as fertilizer attachments and computer hardware installations.
The project “shows the continued support of our board to enhance Wheat Growers' capabilities in delivering innovation to the farm,” Briggs said.
The 36,000-square-foot facility is expected to be operating by next fall. Gilbert said the center will create new jobs, though he did not give a number.
Source: Associated Press
Posted by Jami Howell
