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Agland's History

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The Potato Growers Company located in Eaton, Colorado (known now as Agland, Incorporated) was formed in 1905 to market member's potatoes. It was organized to protest the excessive margins taken by the established produce dealers. Twenty producers invested $100 each to form the company. In 1910 Weld County was the number two potato-producing county in the United States. The county shipped some 8,000 15 ton rail cars of potatoes to distant markets.

In 1913, Agland was incorporated in the State of Colorado as an "Acting" Cooperative. As time passed, other farm supply services were added. A lumber yard and retail venture started in 1920, followed by a service station built in Eaton and one in Ault in 1927-28. Towards the 30's and 40's the Potato Growers were turning into a farm supply cooperative versus a marketing cooperative. As potatoes were being replaced with pinto beans, so The Potato Growers began processing pinto beans and offering a full line of farm supplies.

In 1967, The Potato Growers name was changed to Agland, Incorporated, operating hardware and lumber businesses, service stations, and the Red Bird Mill and elevator. Nine years later Agland merged with another farm supply cooperative, Consumers Oil Company of Greeley, promoting a stronger and larger cooperative still using the Agland name. The 70's and 80's was a time of growth and change for Agland. A new feed mill, a farm store in Eaton, and the 16th Street Plaza were all built. Acquisitions were made in the same time frame with the agronomy division acquiring the Cepex chemical facility in 1988.

More change happened in the 90's with several ventures and a newly built member specific corn storage. Agland's feed division joint ventured with Farmland Industries, and later Land O'Lakes on their feed manufacturing side to lower costs. Also, a propane joint venture with Peak to Peak Propane in Hygiene, Colorado was formed.

The Growth of Agland, from a small potato marketing business in the early 1900's, has been the result of its cooperative purpose and continuing dedication to customer satisfaction.

For more information about Agland's history contact our corporate offices directly.