The new plant has the capacity to process 1000 tons of canola seed per day, producing food grade refined canola oil, a high protein dairy cow and livestock feed ingredient.
According to the company, in the recent years, North Dakota and Minnesota producers have planted between 0.8 and 1.2 million acres of canola. This year, the planted acreage of canola in North Dakota is expected to exceed 1.4 million acres with another 40 to 50 thousand acres in Minnesota.
Northstar is planning to operate the plant through mid-July 2012 with old crop canola seed. The company will then schedule a short shutdown to inspect equipment and make any needed adjustments. Northstar plans to restart the plant in mid-August to process the new crop canola seed.
The company noted that it is looking forward to working with farmers and elevators in the region to provide a new market for canola seed and produce high quality finished products for customers.
