Ag Processing Inc. (AGP) recently held a groundbreaking event at the site of the company’s new soybean processing facility in Aberdeen, S.D. AGP board members and the management team hosted state and community leaders for the ceremony at the construction site.

Originally announced in November 2015, the project will bring to Aberdeen and the surrounding area a state-of-the-art soybean processing facility that will have a positive economic impact on the community and region.

“We are excited to break ground on AGP’s 10th soybean processing plant here today,” Keith Spackler, AGP chief executive officer, said. “This is an opportunity that we have been evaluating for some time, and we appreciate the strong working relationship with state and local economic officials, who have been great partners in the process. AGP’s cooperative ownership base supports this opportunity to expand and enhance our value-added platform.”

He added that the new facility will begin processing soybeans in the fall of 2019, as originally planned.

“Certainly, a construction project as significant as this one requires a good team, and our team is working with others to deliver on the construction phase of this project,” AGP chief operating officer Cal Meyer said. “This facility will process over 45 million bu. of soybeans annually, so it will have a very positive economic impact for farmers and communities in this region. In addition, the plant will provide the Aberdeen community with nearly 50 new jobs with competitive compensation and benefits.”

AGP board chairman Brad Davis said the company’s desire to build a soybean processing plant in Aberdeen was driven by several important factors, including a large supply of soybeans, a community that can provide for a great workforce and solid infrastructure and transportation capabilities. “The relationships that have been formed with the community and our members will make this plant a successful one for many years to come,” he said.