(NewsDakota.com/NorthDakotaAgConnection.com) – A cooperation between Dakota Valley Growers and Bion Environmental Technologies has been formed to build a sustainable beef cattle feeding plant in Bathgate, North Dakota. The project’s objective is to house 15,000 cows and generate about 42,500 head of beef yearly.

Dakota Valley Growers, a multi-generational family farm in the northern Red River Valley, will provide expertise in cattle farming and cash crop cultivation. Bion, a leader in livestock waste treatment technology and sustainable beef, will utilize their Gen3Tech system to capture and stabilize ammonia nitrogen in the manure and convert it into low-carbon fertilizer.

The operation will feature barns with slatted floors and continuous manure removal, optimizing daily gains for the cattle. The project is expected to yield approximately 4,000 tons of fertilizer annually, while data collected will measure improvements in resource efficiencies, animal health, and welfare.

Russell Edgar, founder of Dakota Valley Growers, anticipates positive outcomes from the partnership, including increased profitability and the production of sustainable beef within North Dakota. By reducing the need to send feeder calves to southern markets, the collaboration will boost local demand for corn, feeds, and services, creating employment opportunities.

Ed Schafer, a member of Bion’s board and former USDA Secretary, emphasizes the alignment of the partnership with North Dakota’s farming legacy. Schafer highlights the importance of keeping corn and cattle feeding operations within the state, fostering a more self-sufficient agricultural model.

The collaboration between Bion and Dakota Valley Growers not only enhances economic prospects but also promotes environmentally conscious beef production. By leveraging advanced technologies and local resources, the partnership aims to strengthen North Dakota’s agricultural industry while minimizing environmental impact.