COTTAGE GROVE, WI (January 23, 2025) – ALCIVIA, a member-owned agricultural and energy cooperative, is proud to announce the completion of several major construction milestones at its cutting-edge train shuttle loading facility in Hager City, Wisconsin. This advanced grain facility is poised to transform grain handling and logistics for farmers and the surrounding community. ALCIVIA will be accepting the first grain deliveries in spring of 2025.
“The investments we’re making today in our people, facilities, and services are all part of a broader strategy aimed at fostering growth and innovation for years to come,” said Jim Lange, Chairman, ALCIVIA’s Board of Directors.
The Hager City facility now boasts eight newly completed grain bins capable of storing a total of 3.9 million bushels of grain, alongside two 4,700-bushel-per-hour grain dryers and three 1,500-bushel-capacity dump pits. These features will enable a combined grain handling speed of 60,000 bushels per hour, significantly reducing long lines and wait times. Farmers will spend less time in the cab and thus have a better chance of getting home in time for dinner.
“If you drive past the construction site, you can’t miss the new bins and towers that are reshaping the landscape,” said Jim Dell, ALCIVIA’s CEO and President. “This facility reflects ALCIVIA’s commitment to innovation and to supporting our members and community. We’re excited to see the positive impact it will have on farmers, providing the speed, capacity, and market access they need to thrive.”
Bringing New Opportunities to Farmers
Located on 40 acres with Class I BNSF rail access, this facility can reach the markets within the BNSF network. In addition, ALCIVIA can load shuttles at other locations on the UP and CPKC railroads which provides significant advantages to both domestic and export markets. It also boasts access to the Mississippi and Illinois Rivers, positioning ALCIVIA for optimal logistical and arbitrage opportunities. Farmers will have access to new markets previously out of reach. Farmers like Don Schroeder, who grows corn and soybeans just north of Hager City, anticipate significant benefits from the facility.
“We used to haul our grain as far as Claremont, Minnesota, which is an hour and a half one way,” said Schroeder. “Having this facility close by means less time on the road, lower fuel costs, and reduced wear and tear on our trucks. Plus, with access to year-round rail shipping, we’ll finally have the flexibility to sell and move grain during the winter months when other terminals are closed.”
A Comprehensive Agricultural Hub
In addition to grain handling, ALCIVIA envisions a 24-hour unattended two-bay loading terminal for liquid fertilizer and rail liquid propane unloading and storage in the future. These added services will streamline operations for farmers, saving time and improving overall productivity. By centralizing these resources, ALCIVIA is creating a hub designed to meet the diverse needs of modern agriculture.
“This project is a win-win,” added Dell. “Farmers gain more efficient access to diverse markets, and the community benefits from increased tax revenue and economic activity. We’re confident this will be a game-changer for the region.”
Looking Ahead
Construction on the Hager City facility began in April 2024, just five months after ALCIVIA purchased the 40-acre site. The facility remains on track for its spring 2025 completion. Farmers and community members can sign up for updates on the construction at www.ALCIVIA.com/HagerCity.
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About ALCIVIA
ALCIVIA is a leading, member-owned agricultural and energy cooperative driven by a passion for excellence and a future without boundaries. Located in Wisconsin and serving farm, business, and retail customers in Wisconsin, Minnesota, Illinois, and Iowa, ALCIVIA’s engaged employees provide innovative, responsible solutions to help drive the immediate and long-term success of their customers, including competitive input financing, and best-in-class products and services in agronomy, animal nutrition, energy, and grain. Learn more about ALCIVIA at www.ALCIVIA.com.