A: Both Boards believe there may be opportunities to create a stronger, more efficient cooperative by combining resources, talent, and infrastructure. The study will help determine if unifying would lead to better service, improved patron value, and stronger long-term stability.

A: Meadowland Farmers Cooperative is financially strong and a natural cultural fit for Ag Plus Cooperative. Our trade territories align closely, we share member-owned values, and they already work with many of the same industry partners and outside contacts in this region.

Beyond shared values and geography, Meadowland brings significant operational strengths that directly benefit Ag Plus members:

   • Grain and rail access at Echo, which enhances marketing opportunities and helps improve pricing options for our producers.

   • Fertilizer rail capacity in Echo and Walnut Grove, improving supply reliability and cost efficiency.

   • Membership in the United Services Association fertilizer buying group, increasing our collective purchasing power.

   • Energy transport opportunities that expand reach and efficiency in fuel delivery.

   • A strong financial foundation that provides balance sheet strength and protects member equity long term.

   • The potential for D-Pad 199 tax advantages related to grain sales — providing additional cooperative-level savings.

   • Access to capital at better interest rates, allowing future investment in infrastructure, equipment, and people.

   • The ability to be more efficient with our existing assets and theirs at Echo, Russell, and Vesta.

   • Greater stability and sustainability for employees, providing room for advancement and long-term opportunities.

   • Diversification of risk — whether from markets, product movement, or weather events — across a larger trade territory.

In short, this unification creates a stronger, more resilient cooperative that safeguards our members’ investment, enhances efficiency, and ensures we can continue delivering value well into the future.

A: The unification with Meadowland Farmers Cooperative is designed to directly benefit patrons through stronger financial footing, improved supply access, and greater long-term stability. Here’s what that means in practical terms for our patrons and producers:

   • Stronger patron equity protection. A more robust balance sheet and improved financial strength mean your cooperative is better positioned to protect existing equity, sustain a solid equity retirement program, and generate future patronage dividends.

   • Long-term sustainability. The unification strengthens our ability to adapt to changing markets, invest in technology, and deliver the level of service and value our members expect for years to come.

   • Improved grain marketing and pricing opportunities. Meadowland’s established grain and rail access in Echo opens up additional markets and transportation options, which can lead to stronger bids and better pricing flexibility for producers.

   • Enhanced fertilizer and input supply. With rail capacity in Echo and Walnut Grove and participation in the United Services Association buying group, the unified cooperative gains improved purchasing power and supply reliability — helping reduce cost volatility and improve availability.

   • Continued investment in local infrastructure. Access to capital and better interest rates allow the new cooperative to reinvest in local assets, equipment, and facilities that serve members every day.

   • Operational efficiency and shared assets. Combining resources and expertise across both organizations allows for more efficient use of assets such as Echo, Russell, Vesta, Tracy, and Slayton, ultimately lowering operational costs and improving service.

   • Energy and transportation advantages. Meadowland’s energy transport capabilities enhance delivery efficiency and supply stability for fuel and energy customers across the region.

A: Yes. If the Boards agree that unification would benefit both cooperatives, detailed information will be shared with members before a vote is held. The process is expected to take weeks, not months.

A: Protecting member equity is a top priority. Both Boards and management teams will work through how equity and retained patronage will transfer or be honored under the new cooperative. Details will be communicated before any vote takes place.

A: If the unification is approved, future patronage will come from the combined cooperative’s overall performance. The goal is for members to benefit from greater efficiency, scale, and profitability.

A: Yes. The study will include discussions about representation and governance to ensure local input continues to guide decisions. Both Boards are committed to maintaining strong local connections — and two current Meadowland board members already live in our trade territory.

A: No changes will occur during the study. Your day-to-day interactions with staff, locations, billing, and services will remain the same for now.

A: No closures are planned at this stage. The goal is to make both cooperatives more efficient and sustainable, and the Board of Directors will continue to evaluate assets and opportunities to ensure we’re operating in the most sustainable way for members and employees.

A: The study is expected to move quickly — measured in weeks, not months. Both Boards agree that the sooner clear information is available, the better it is for members, employees, and customers. The goal is to complete the study efficiently, share results transparently, and give members time to understand the proposal before any vote.

A: If the unification is approved, representation from the Ag Plus Board will be included in the new Meadowland Farmers Cooperative Board to ensure member voices from our trade area continue to be heard. Details will be shared before any member vote.

A: Progress updates will be shared through communications on our website, social media channels, and direct mailings to voting members as the process moves forward.