Ag Valley Co-op in Maywood, NE, has recently completed a significant upgrade to its grain storage capabilities with the addition of a state-of-the-art 1.4 million bushel Chief Agri bin. This ambitious project was expertly managed by Blue River Sales and Service/Blue River Millwright Services, a trusted Chief Agri dealer, marking a pivotal enhancement to the co-op’s operations.
A Project to Meet Growing Demands
The centerpiece of the Maywood project is a 139-foot-diameter bin, capable of holding 1.4 million bushels of grain. Complementing the bin are a 25,000-bph receiving pit and leg, and a 10,000-bph reclaim system that integrates seamlessly with the existing concrete facility. The strategic design and construction of this facility were expertly managed by Blue River Sales and Service, ensuring that the project not only met but exceeded the expectations of Ag Valley Co-op.
Addressing Critical Needs
According to Jeff Krejdl, Ag Valley Co-op’s General Manager, the primary motivation for this project was to overcome significant operational challenges. “At our Maywood facility, we faced challenges with service and perceived inability to handle grain efficiently. We were limited by slow receiving capacity and outdated wooden bunkers. This renovation aims to increase our receiving capability, limit exposure associated with grain kept in outdoor bunkers, and improve the overall customer experience for our member-owners,” Krejdl explained.
Choosing Reliable Partners
Ag Valley Co-op’s decision to partner with Chief Agri and Blue River Sales and Service was grounded in a decade-long relationship characterized by reliability and exceptional service. Krejdl noted, “We have extensive previous experience with Chief Agri and Blue River Sales and Service. Jeff Schmidt, District Manager for Chief Agri, and Mike Skeen and Mark Baird, co-owners of Blue River Sales and Service, go above and beyond, consistently delivering and exceeding our expectations on previous projects.”
Smooth Implementation and Project Management
The implementation process, from the initial concept to the final construction, was meticulously handled by Chief Agri, Blue River Sales and Service, and Ag Valley Co-op’s engineering firm. “The project was successfully managed by all parties involved and completed ahead of schedule,” Krejdl stated, underscoring the efficiency and professionalism that defined the collaboration.
Anticipating Positive Outcomes
While the true test of the new facility’s impact will come with the fall harvest, Krejdl is optimistic. “Using the new facility will not be an issue for us as we are looking forward to it. We will be better equipped to evaluate the benefits after the completion of fall harvest.”
A Testimony to Successful Partnership
Mike Skeen, co-owner of Blue River Sales and Service, highlighted the project’s main goals and smooth execution. “They needed more space and another unloading spot to help with efficiency during harvest and bring more trucks through. The construction began after harvest ’23 and was completed by May ’24 for wheat harvest. There were no unexpected obstacles; it was a very smooth build.”
The customer’s satisfaction is a testament to the project’s success. “They are very pleased with the outcome. They particularly appreciated the new reclaim options from the bin and the increased storage capacity, which will require less manpower to move grain,” Skeen remarked.
Looking Ahead to Future Success
The partnership between Ag Valley Co-op and Blue River Sales and Service is set to continue, with future projects already on the horizon. “In Edison, Nebraska, Chief and Blue River are currently helping us with another project. When we need help with grain storage or handling equipment, they are the ones we call first,” Krejdl affirmed.
The addition of the new Chief Agri bin at the Maywood facility represents a significant step forward for Ag Valley Co-op, enhancing their ability to serve their member-owners and reinforcing their commitment to operational excellence and customer satisfaction.
Check out this blog post detailing another successful collaboration between Chief Agri and Blue River Sales and Service for Ag Valley Co-op in Jennings, Kansas.
For inquiries about Chief Agri products and services, visit the Chief Agri Contact Directory.
