Producers can log on to the site and learn about MSA?s Grower Contracts Available service and a wealth of other information.  Viewers can also connect direct to MSA member processors, elevators and exporting companies that work with growers and market a wide range of identity preserved (IP) specialty grains for international and domestic markets. 

These specialty grains -- including food grade, identity preserved soybeans for tofu, natto and other Asian soy food uses; non-GMO corn and food grade corn; new low linolenic special trait GM soybeans; identity preserved wheat for specific milling uses; DDGS for feed; peas, lentils and pulse crops; edible beans; flax; organic crops and more.  These specialty grains often provide growers with premium prices above the Chicago Board of Trade.  

With support from the Minnesota Soybean Research and Promotion Council and the North Dakota Soybean Council, MSA's new web portal is designed to serve as The Network for the entire specialty grains industry in the region.   Links and information sections serve growers; seed suppliers; processor traders; shipping, logistics and transportation suppliers for export shipping; IP grain industry supplier firms; research institutions; commodity organizations, state and federal agencies, and more.

The web portal will also be promoted internationally to food industry companies overseas to help them source premium specialty grains direct from MSA member companies and their producer partners, or to place a trade lead request.

Web portal visitors can also sign up for a free weekly news digest service through the site.

"We're seeing more and more interest by farmers who are looking for new opportunities in value-added crops, and they are available," said Bruce Abbe, Midwest Shippers Association executive director.    "For example, new varieties of conventional, non-GMO varieties are being developed and come out each year that compete well with new GM varieties.   For a little extra handling and management, the premiums available can be well worth it.  With input costs continuing to ratchet up, growers are finding it pays to check out IP premium specialty crops.

"Midwest Shippers is made up of many of the best, most experienced and knowledgeable specialty grains handling companies to be found anywhere.  We felt it was time to provide a full networking information tool to serve our producers, our international buyers, and our industry partners.   Check it out at  www.midwestshippers.com."

The Midwest Shippers Association is a regional trade association cooperative serving the specialty grains and ag shipping industry in Minnesota, North and South Dakota, Iowa and Wisconsin.  For more information, call 952-253-6231.