LYNDEN, WASHINGTON, U.S. — The voting producers of Whatcom Farmers Cooperative (WFC), a full-service ag cooperative based out of Lynden, Washington, U.S., have approved a merger with CHS Inc, the cooperative said on April 6. The proposal will become effective in July 2015, pending appropriate due diligence by both organizations and approval by the CHS board of directors.

"I want to thank the producers of Whatcom Farmers Co-op for turning out and making a clear statement that we should move forward with the merger. A lot of time and effort by the board of directors went into the decision to bring this proposal to our members," said WFC Board Chairman Jeff Bedlington. "WFC will remain a locally based company, staying true to its roots. We are excited for the opportunities that CHS and WFC can provide for our employees and customers."

"CHS continually looks for strategic opportunities that strengthen our ability to help our farmer-owners grow their businesses," said Lynden Johnson, executive vice-president, CHS. "We're very pleased to be able to build on the already-strong local expertise for producers in this trade territory."

Customers should expect a smooth transition, including continuity of staffing at its current locations. Don Eucker will continue to lead the group as general manager.