REGINA, SASKATCHEWAN, CANADA — Viterra Inc. announced on Nov. 22 that it plans to upgrade its terminals at Binscarth, Manitoba and Stettler, Alberta, Canada. These investments will result in increased rail capacity, substantial expansion of storage capacity, and faster throughput.

“This significant reinvestment in our grain handling network demonstrates our ongoing commitment to operational excellence and leadership in our industry,” said Kyle Jeworski, Viterra’s president and chief executive officer for North America. “By expanding our rail and storage capacities in targeted areas, we are creating further value for our farm customers at the local level, as well as our suppliers and end use customers.”

Storage capacity will increase by over 30,000 tonnes at each facility.  Railcar capacity at the facilities will more than double, and each location will be able to load in excess of 134 railcars once the upgrades are complete.  The Binscarth facility is situated on a CP operated rail line, while the Stettler facility is on Alberta Prairie Railway, a CP railroad partner.

“We’re pleased to continue working with Viterra to advance our plans in the Stettler area in order to more efficiently serve farmers and the broader economy,” said Joan Hardy, CP’s vice-president of sales and marketing, grain and fertilizers. “Innovations like this fit well with our 8,500-foot High Efficiency Product train model and are integral to the continued success of the grain supply chain.”

Don Gillespie, president of Alberta Prairie Railway, added, “We are looking forward to continuing our long-term partnership with Viterra in grain transportation in the Stettler area.”

Viterra said its focus on targeted industry investments combined with its strong supplier partnerships are an essential component of its long-term strategy.

“Over the last several years, we’ve invested substantially in our value chain, from our inland country assets to our port facilities,” Jeworski said. “We will continue to make the necessary investments and work closely with our supply chain partners to ensure we’re well positioned to support the efficient movement of Canada’s agricultural commodities today and well into the future.”