BISMARCK, NORTH DAKOTA, U.S. — North Dakota Gov. Jack Dalrymple on Feb. 7 requested Archer Daniels Midland (ADM) officials work with state and local officials and private developers to consider alternatives to the company’s planned closing of its ethanol plant in Walhalla, North Dakota, U.S.

“I spoke with and encouraged ADM management to make sure they pursue all other options before closing the plant,” Dalrymple said. “I stressed the importance of taking care of the employees and I offered the state’s assistance in finding another company to operate the plant and to evaluate the plant’s other potential uses.”

Greg Webb, ADM’s vice-president of government relations, told Dalrymple that the company will offer employees jobs at other ADM facilities or provide severance packages. He said some jobs may be available at the company’s processing facilities in Enderlin and Velva.

Dalrymple has directed the North Dakota Department of Commerce to work with ADM and local officials to analyze the plant’s infrastructure, workforce capabilities and potential uses. Commerce will also help identify and recruit potential investors and is prepared to assist in an operational transition by providing loan assistance, job training and other support programs.