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High Plains Processing to open a new multi-seed processing plant

Soybeans have been at the center of a controversy over the use of dicamba, an herbicide which can drift over property lines and cause damage to neighboring crops. A new type of soybean seed, engineered to withstand dicamba, is seizing a majority of the market.
Derek R. Henkle
/
AFP/Getty Images
Soybean field

High Plains Processing has announced plans for a new multi-seed processing plant near Mitchell.

Davison County Commissioners unanimously approved a $21 million financing plan for the project.

Over the next two years, High Plains Processing plans to invest over $500 million in Davidson County and across the state.

The company said the new processing plant will employ an estimated 85 full-time employees and an annual payroll of approximately $5.5 million.

High Plains Processing is part of the South Dakota Soybean Processors, LLC organization.

“South Dakota Soybean Processors is excited to see High Plains Processing continue to provide wide ranging benefits to producers and communities across the state,” said Tom Kersting, CEO of South Dakota Soybean Processors. “This plant represents the next chapter for South Dakota Soybean Processors, and it could not happen without the great support from local investors, producers, county officials, and the State of South Dakota."

The Governor’s Office of Economic Development said they are excited for the expansion and appreciates the forward push the company brings agriculture throughout the state.

Evan Walton is an SDPB reporter based in Sioux Falls. Evan holds a Master’s in English Literature from Southern New Hampshire University and was honorably discharged from the United States Army in 2015, where he served for five years as an infantryman.