Last August, we were talking about how southern WI and much of eastern IA were in a severe drought. Parts of our territory were even classified as having extreme drought conditions and going a full month without any measurable rainfall. Today we have nearly the exact opposite conditions. Instead of extreme drought, we are seeing nearly record rainfall for much of the Midwest, and some areas dealing with ongoing flooding issues. Just as the drought brought out concerns for how last year’s crops would yield, too much rain this year can bring a different set of challenges to overcome and stressful times for our customers and staff in our ag divisions.
While growing conditions may have changed, our agronomy division was prepared for the challenge and performed at a high level all season. Last year, without having to work around rain delays, scheduling field applications was easier than just about any year we can remember. This year was different. Still, with limited days available for application this season, having the team and assets in place to meet the challenge proved that with proper planning and continuing to invest in equipment and facilities is what is needed to succeed in today’s business climate. As our team works to finish out this year’s crop with timely applications of fungicide and more, we are already starting to look at what went well and where we can improve for next year’s crop and beyond.
Speaking of planning and investments to prepare for the future, some of the larger new investments that the Premier board had approved are ready to go into service while others are progressing as planned. The new office and warehouse in Lancaster was completed in late July and should be ready for staff move-in. Both the Westby mill and Mazomanie grain projects are essentially done with just a few items to wrap up. The large expansion project at our Mineral Point mill and the new Cuba City agronomy facility are both a little behind the original schedule, mostly due to weather, but progressing daily. More to come as these and other projects are put into service to meet your needs.
With only two months left in our fiscal year, I would like to thank all of you again for your support. We have an excellent group of highly trained and dedicated staff to help you in all areas of our company. Our board of directors work hard to provide the vision and tools our team needs to serve you. We will continue to strive to exceed your expectations and we appreciate your feedback in helping us stay ahead of your needs. We will continue to look for new ways to add efficiencies to what we are currently doing and will continue to explore ventures, partnerships and other growth opportunities that can enhance our value to you. As with anything that is constantly moving and adapting, we will run into bumps along the way, but if we all work together (board, employees, and owners/members) we will continue to build the company of which you will be proud to be owners and our employees will be proud to be a part of
