South Dakota farmers gain direct rail connection with Union Pacific’s GoTrain service

Rapid City, Pierre & Eastern Railroad (RCPE) delivers directly to farm producers in the Mount Rushmore State. Instead of transferring shipments to a third railroad, RCPE now interchanges trains directly with Union Pacific at its Mankato, Minnesota, rail yard — saving time and extra coordination.

"Moving products to market quickly is critical to fertilizer and crop producers," said Kari Kirchhoefer, Union Pacific Vice President – Chemicals. "GroTrain is a cost-effective solution that streamlines rail service, expedites transit times and provides increased efficiencies they need."

According to South Dakota's Department of Agriculture, the industry has an annual US$25.6 billion economic impact in the state, which is home to more than 19 million acres of cropland and 23 million acres of pastureland. Top products include sunflowers, oats, flaxseed, corn and wheat.

"We are committed to working with our Class I railroad partners to provide competitive transportation solutions," said Brad Ovitt, RCPE President. "The interchange at Mankato provides another effective gateway for South Dakota shippers to take advantage of business opportunities across Union Pacific's network."

Read the article online at: https://www.worldfertilizer.com/materials-handling/10012017/south-dakota-farmers-gain-direct-rail-connection-with-union-pacifics-gotrain-service/