By Scout Nelson
Excitement builds around a new soybean processing facility under construction just south of Mitchell. Set to open in 2025, this plant won't only purchase soybeans from local producers but will also become a crucial source of soybean meal, a nutritious component for swine diets.
Pork producers cherish soybean meal, recognizing its value in offering essential amino acids for their pigs. It’s a potent nutrient for swine protein, crucial in their diets. Presently, soybean meal constitutes around 20% of swine diets in the area. But with the new plant's opening, a decrease in costs could motivate producers to incorporate more soybean meal into their rations.
Local pork producers currently source their soybean meal from a processing plant in Volga, South Dakota, a 200-mile round-trip from Mitchell. The new facility promises not only convenience but also potential growth in local grain markets, pulling from a vast area of soybean and possibly even sunflower producers.
South Dakota has witnessed significant growth in its pork industry in recent years. With the new plant ensuring easy access to high-quality feed, the state could see even more growth in the sector. This new development represents not only an opportunity for the pork industry but a beacon of growth for the entire region.
Photo Credit: istock-oticki
Categories: South Dakota, Crops, Soybeans, Livestock, Hogs