Joint venture aims to improve fertilizer supply and service for regional farmers
A new fertilizer blending and distribution facility is planned for south central Missouri to support farmers with improved product access and faster service. The project is being developed through a joint effort between two agribusiness organizations with strong regional experience: MFA Incorporated and Black Family Enterprises have formed Mid-Ozark Fertilizer, LLC.
The facility will be located near Lebanon Missouri and is expected to begin operations in the fall of 2026. Its main goal is to improve fertilizer availability while reducing delays during busy farming seasons. Faster service during peak application periods will help farmers manage crops more efficiently.
“This joint venture will give customers in the area a high-capacity asset for fertilizer distribution,” said Jason Weirich, chief operating officer for MFA Incorporated. “We have used similar designs in other parts of MFA’s trade territory, and they have significantly improved unloading speed, blend accuracy and loadout efficiency. We expect this facility to deliver those same benefits in the mid Ozarks.”
The new plant will include a large dry fertilizer system designed for smooth blending and quick loading and unloading. The facility will support both wholesale customers and farmers who use their own equipment. This flexible model will allow more producers to access fertilizer when they need it most.
Modern technology will play a key role in the facility’s operations. Special equipment will be used to improve accuracy of speed and handling of bulk materials. The storage system will also help maintain steady supply levels and improve delivery reliability across the region.
“We’re excited to bring the ease and efficiency of the latest in blending technology to the farmers and ranchers of south-central Missouri,” said Jacob Black, managing partner for Black Family Enterprises. “We will now get to experience the efficiency of facilities designed for crop country here in the beauty of the Ozarks.”
Construction of the facility is expected to begin in April 2026. Once completed, the operation will serve as a central supply point for fertilizer distribution in south central Missouri. The project is designed to support long-term agricultural growth and stable farm operations.
“This is the kind of collaboration that makes sense for both organizations and the growers we serve,” said Bob Huffman, president and CEO of MFA Incorporated. “By working together, we can create scale and efficiency that support long term customer value.”
The joint venture brings together shared knowledge of resources and local understanding of farming needs. By combining strengths, the partners aim to create an efficient system that benefits farmers, ranchers, and agricultural businesses.
Overall, the new fertilizer facility represents an important investment in farm infrastructure. It will help strengthen the agricultural supply chain to improve service quality and support the future of farming in Missouri.
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