Peace Garden News

Senator John Hoeven announced that Agristo plans to expand its operations in North Dakota by establishing a $500 million potato processing plant in Grand Forks. The project is contingent upon finalizing the incentive plan and transportation rates with BNSF. The facility will be built on a nearly 350-acre site, supporting 250 employees and providing a local market for up to 15,000 acres of planted potatoes. There is also room for future expansion.

Hoeven has been actively involved in advancing the project by collaborating with Agristo's leadership and local officials, including Mayor Brandon Bochenski. He advocated for Grand Forks as the plant location to Agristo COO Kristof Wallays and facilitated discussions between BNSF and Agristo to address rail service costs, which were crucial in securing Grand Forks as the chosen site.

Hoeven engaged with BNSF CEO Katie Farmer and Agristo leaders last year to outline the benefits of a partnership and secure cost-effective rail service.

"This is a game-changer for potato growers in North Dakota, who will benefit from a $500 million, 350-acre facility that provides a new, local market for the high-value crops they produce," said Hoeven. "We made the case to Agristo and BNSF, outlining the benefits to both companies and how Grand Forks is the clear choice for this new facility. We appreciate everyone involved, including Mayor Bochenski, Grand Forks EDC President Keith Lund, the region’s potato industry leaders and BNSF CEO Katie Farmer, for their efforts to make this new project a reality, benefitting the region and our farmers for years to come."