Grain pact to benefit terminal on Alton & Southern Railway line

COFCO International Ltd. (CIL) and grain cooperative Growmark Inc. have formed a new partnership that includes joint ownership and operation of a rail, barge and truck terminal on the Mississippi River in Cahokia, Illinois.

The pact includes a grain origination agreement. Additionally, Growmark will staff a grain merchandiser in CIL's St. Louis office to originate grain and service patron accounts, company officials said in a joint press release.

The terminal is served by the Alton & Southern Railway and can receive product from all Class Is, officials said.

"The partnership provides new markets for our members and farmers and opens strategic partnerships around the world," said Brent Ericson, Growmark's senior vice president, member business. "We believe Cahokia will play a key role in originating grain for the international markets driving global demand, and provide a win-win situation for both organizations."

CIL's Cahokia facility receives grain via rail and truck for transloading to barges destined for export.

The facility features six truck receiving lanes, a railroad loop track spanning 34,500 feet with two rail pits, which allows for simultaneous unloading of two shuttle trains of grain and grain products.