Soybean crushing plant hopes to build in GF

A company looking to build a $400 million dollar soybean crushing plant has selected Grand Forks as the location for the facility.

Epitome Energy says the plant will be able to process 42 million bushels of soybeans per year into soybean oil…meal…and hulls. The company has executed a letter of intent on a greenfield location just north of Grand Forks that is in close proximity to rail and freeways.

Crookston (MN) had been on a short list of sites for the project but company CEO Dennis Egan says after a year-and-a-half wait for Minnesota to complete a review of permit applications the decision was made to explore the Grand Forks location. Egan says he has already discussed the plans with North Dakota Commerce and Bank of North Dakota officials.

In October the MPCA completed an environmental review and determined the project had minimal impact to groundwater and surface water but an air quality permit would be required to comply with federal regulations.

When fully operational it’s estimated the crush facility will create 50 to 60 permanent jobs.

Egan estimates the facility will strengthen farmers’ basis for soybeans by 20-25 cents per bushel.

Epitome is working with Fagen Inc. on the Engineering Procurement and Construction contract.

The company is looking to break ground in the summer of 2023, with operations set to begin in the fall of 2025.

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In a prepared statement North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum says the investment will add value for soybean growers…support growth in renewable fuels…and strengthen the state’s overall economy.

Grand Forks Mayor Brandon Bochenski says the plant is an important piece of the puzzle for farmers who will need to reach new markets in the future.