Two NR-S graduates start independent seed and chemical business

A vacant farmstead just 3 miles north of New Rockford along U.S. Hwy. 281 has become the home of a start-up seed and chemical operation founded by two NR-S graduates.

Taylor Koepplin (2010) and Eric Perleberg (2009) established James River Ag last fall, an effort they say was the product of "just a couple of friends talking." The result is a newly-constructed facility equipped with offices, a warehouse and a bulk soybean treatment plant.

"I've wanted to do this for a few years now," said Koepplin, who holds an agronomy degree from Bismarck State College. "This area is ready for something new." He is referring to seed and chemical sales, and is proud to be an independent, locally-owned business.

The pair began operations last fall, before the ground had broken for the rural facility. They sent letters out to area producers in September 2017 to highlight what was to come. Now, after a long and cold winter of sales amidst construction, they are ramping up just in time for the spring season.

The seed James River Ag offers is well-known, tested and proven. Recognized names such as Peterson Farms Seed, Mycogen and Stine are displayed on the bags in their warehouse. Another major brand they carry is Mustang Seeds, a company based in Madison, S.D. that has successfully served growers in South Dakota, Iowa, Nebraska, Minnesota and North Dakota for over 54 years.

As for chemical, they offer the main lines of herbicide, pesticide, fungicide and other crop protection products from Dow Agriscience, BASF and FMC Agricultural Solutions. On November 1, 2017, FMC acquired a significant portion of DuPont's Crop Protection business and is now the fifth-largest crop protection company globally. 

James River Ag also offers on-the-farm custom ground and aerial spraying services and general crop scouting.

"We believe in earning your trust through quality products and service as well as dedication to your operation. We are willing to go the extra mile to help the farmer and rancher get ahead," said Koepplin.As Koepplin and Perleberg look forward to the busy growing season immediately in front of them, they keep an eye on the future as well. Koepplin said that they have considered liquid fertilizer and expect that it will be their next step for growth.

Building a customer base among neighbors, friends and peers in agriculture will be paramount to success. In order to grow, Koepplin said he will be available "whenever the phone rings." Although posted office hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday to Friday, he said he anticipates that many days he will be there from daylight to dusk to help producers when they are busy. With both having grown up in farming families, Koepplin and Perleberg understand, recognize and appreciate how farmers operate.

"We are here to work. We're not afraid to put the extra time in," Koepplin said.

For more information about James River Ag, call (701) 947-2284, visit http://www.jamesriverag.net online or like them on Facebook.