By Scout Nelson
Nebraska's soybean industry is entering a new phase with two major soybean crush facilities becoming operational in 2025. Norfolk Crush in Norfolk and Ag Processing Inc. (AGP) in David City are set to process millions of bushels annually, adding value to the local and global soybean market.
The rise in demand for soybean oil, particularly for renewable fuels such as biomass-based diesel, has driven investment in domestic crushing facilities. Although some national projects have faced delays, Nebraska's plants are moving forward successfully.
On May 29, Norfolk Crush held its grand opening, marking a major milestone. The plant has a crushing capacity of nearly 39 million bushels per year, equating to about 110,000 bushels per day. “Many soybeans that were leaving the state for export through the Pacific Northwest and Mexico will now be crushed locally,” said Chad Spohn, CEO of Norfolk Crush.
This shift means Nebraska-grown soybeans will increasingly be processed into soybean meal and oil in-state. “As a result of the change, soybean meal will now be a featured export commodity,” Spohn said.
AGP also celebrated the grand opening of its new crush plant near David City on July 17. The facility can crush 150,000 bushels daily and degum 1.8 million pounds of crude oil per day, creating over 60 jobs.
“AGP is set to begin operations at our second Nebraska soybean processing facility in David City this fall,” said Brett Kinney. “The facility will produce high-protein soybean meal for local livestock operations, as well as soybean oil for use in food production and biofuel processing.”
With strong rail infrastructure and links to the Port of Grays Harbor expansion, Nebraska is positioned to become a key player in global soybean exports and renewable energy markets.
Photo Credit:gettyimages-gilaxia
Categories: Nebraska, Crops, Soybeans, Energy