By Blake Jackson
CHS has unveiled plans to build a new soybean processing facility near Evansville, Wisconsin, in a project valued at approximately $700 million. The investment represents a major expansion of the cooperative processing operations and is expected to provide long-term benefits for soybean growers and rural communities.
Construction is scheduled to begin in the coming weeks, and the facility is expected to be completed by fall 2028. Once operational, the plant will be capable of processing 80 million bushels of soybeans annually, helping meet rising demand for soybean-based products.
The project comes at a time when demand for soybean oil and meals continues to grow. Soybean oil is increasingly used in renewable fuel production, while soybean meals remain an important ingredient in livestock feed. Expanding domestic processing capacity is viewed as a key step in supporting these markets.
"Investments like this help CHS create additional value for our owners and customers by expanding market access, strengthening our processing network and creating new demand opportunities for U.S.-grown soybeans," said John Griffith, executive vice president of agriculture business and CHS Hedging. "Strong demand across food, feed and renewable fuel markets, coupled with policies that encourage
He added, domestic processing, manufacturing and energy production, reinforce the need for additional soybean processing capacity in the United States. This facility positions CHS to support farmers and customers for years to come."
The Wisconsin location offers several advantages, including strong soybean production, existing transportation infrastructure, and access to livestock markets that consume soybean meals. These factors are expected to help ensure efficient movement of products to customers across North America and overseas.
Economic development is another major benefit expected from investment. During construction, hundreds of workers are anticipated to be employed through contractors and skilled trade positions. After completion, approximately 80 permanent jobs are expected to be created at the facility.
"Wisconsin's agriculture and food processing sectors are an essential part of our state's past and present, and they will continue to be critical for our future," said Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers. "That's why I am proud to support and have a partner in CHS as they work to expand soybean processing right here in Wisconsin. Whether it's creating permanent jobs for families or ensuring our farmers and producers have the tools and support they need to get their products to market across the globe, today's announcement of a new facility is a win-win for our farmers and our state."
Farmers in Wisconsin and surrounding states may also benefit from increased demand for locally produced soybeans. Additional processing capacity can provide growers with another market option and potentially improve opportunities for marketing their crops closer to home.
Industry and farmer groups have welcomed the announcement, noting that increased processing capacity supports both soybean oil and soybean meal markets. Expanding local demand can contribute to a stronger agricultural economy while creating new opportunities throughout the soybean value chain.
The facility will become part of CHS's broader oilseed processing network. The cooperative currently operates canola and soybean processing facilities in Minnesota and has continued to invest in infrastructure that supports agricultural production and market access.
"For Wisconsin soybean farmers, this investment represents something we have been working toward for years: stronger demand for the crop we grow right here at home," said Wisconsin Soybean Association President Doug Rebout. "Additional processing capacity gives growers another reliable market close to the farm and helps create long-term opportunities for Wisconsin soybeans in both meal and oil markets."
Once the Evansville facility comes online, CHS will significantly increase its soybean processing capabilities. The expansion reflects confidence in the long-term outlook for soybean agriculture and the importance of value-added processing within the U.S. farming sector.
As demand for food products, livestock feed ingredients and renewable fuel feedstocks continues to grow, projects like this are expected to play a crucial role in supporting farmers, strengthening rural economies and enhancing the agricultural supply chain. The Evansville facility is positioned to become an important part of future growth.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-zoran-zeremski
Categories: Wisconsin, Business, Crops, Soybeans