As planting season begins to wind down, activity continues to build across the ag industry. Across Chief Agri, we’re seeing strong momentum through ongoing projects, facility expansions, and the continued dedication of our employees, dealers, customers, and industry partners.
In this month’s edition of Chief Agri Insights, we’re highlighting the Peetz Farmer’s Co-op expansion project in Peetz, Colorado, sharing post-planting maintenance reminders from our engineering team, and providing updates on upcoming industry events.
Thank you for staying connected with us and for your continued interest in the work happening across our teams and throughout the industry.
Travys Woodside VP International Sales
Message from Leadership
Travys Woodside, VP International Sales
Positive Trends Amid Clearly Defined Uncertainties:
This year has started on a distinctly positive note compared to the challenges we faced in 2025. The diligent preparation and adaptability we showed during uncertain times have positioned us to capitalize as market conditions improve. Externally, increased demand for new projects and the revival of previously paused orders demonstrate greater confidence across all regions.
These positive trends are directly reflected internally: our operations are energized by a renewed sense of purpose and dedication, with production teams working seamlessly to fulfill a growing backlog. This momentum not only drives organizational progress but also enables us to deliver greater value and reliability to our customers and stakeholders.
While we are thankful for our recent successes, we remain mindful of significant uncertainties that affect our planning and execution. For example, ongoing drought conditions have led to reduced crop yields, which limit the number of harvest cycles and may delay agricultural projects. Additionally, global conflicts have caused fluctuations in energy prices and increased freight costs, directly impacting project budgets and timelines. At Chief, we are committed to making informed decisions that keep us competitive, preserve the quality of our products, and maintain exceptional customer support. We continue to stand ready to support all stakeholders who place their trust in Chief, with transparency and a balanced outlook that acknowledges both our optimism and the realities we face.
“The diligent preparation and adaptability we showed during uncertain times have positioned us to capitalize as market conditions improve.”
Luke Oswald Mechanical Engineering Manager
ENGINEERING UPDATE
Luke Oswald, Mechanical Engineering Manager
Protecting Performance Through Preventive Maintenance
As planting season begins to wrap up, now is an ideal time to review grain handling systems and complete any periodic maintenance that may have been delayed during busier times of the year. Regular inspections and preventative maintenance help ensure equipment continues operating safely, efficiently, and reliably throughout the season.
Each type of equipment requires specific inspection and service intervals as outlined in the applicable Chief Agri manuals, but several key areas should be reviewed across most systems.
Drive Systems
Belt tension and condition
Gearbox oil levels
Gearbox seal integrity
Motor grease intervals
Mechanical Components
Bearing seal integrity
Bucket condition
Paddle condition
Proper chain tension
Aeration & Cleaning
Ensure fan blades spin freely
Help reduce corrosion risks and prevent overheating by maintaining cleanliness
“Preventative maintenance helps keep equipment operating at peak performance while reducing the risk of costly downtime.”
Following the periodic maintenance guidelines outlined in Chief Agri manuals can help maximize equipment performance, extend equipment life, and reduce the risk of unexpected downtime during critical operating periods.
For detailed maintenance procedures, inspection intervals, and operating recommendations, please refer to the applicable Chief Agri equipment manuals.
As harvest volumes continued to grow at Peetz Farmer’s Co-op Co. in Peetz, Colorado, the need for additional storage capacity became increasingly clear. What was once viewed as a long-term expansion eventually became an immediate priority as strong crops and growing demand pushed the facility’s existing storage system to its limits.
To support future growth and better serve local producers, Peetz Farmer’s Co-op partnered with M & N Millwright and Chief Agri to install a new CB40-19 bin featuring more than 800,000 bushels of storage capacity, along with upgraded conveying and loadout capabilities designed to improve operational flexibility during harvest.
Chris Roberts, CEO/President of Peetz Farmer’s Co-op, noted that the additional capacity allows the facility to better manage incoming grain volumes while reducing the need to move grain during peak harvest periods.
“We needed another bin because we feel like we have to have a place for our farmers and producers to go.”
Project Highlights
• CB40-19 Bin
• 123'9" Diameter
• 800,000+ Bushel Capacity
• 20,000 BPH Fill Conveyor
• 10,000 BPH Reclaim Conveyor
• Catwalk System
• Installed Mid-2025
• Dealer: M & N Millwright
Throughout the interview, Roberts repeatedly emphasized the reliability and performance of the Chief Agri system during harvest operations.
“They just operate the way that they’re supposed to — and that’s what we want, especially during harvest time.”
With expanded capacity, improved grain flow, and dependable system performance, the project positions Peetz Farmer’s Co-op for continued growth while supporting the needs of producers across the region.
Customer Interview: Chris Roberts
Chris Roberts, CEO/President of Peetz Farmer’s Co-op, shares how the project supports harvest efficiency, operational flexibility, and long-term growth for local producers.
Peetz Farmer’s Co-op Project Overview
Take a closer look at the completed Peetz Farmer’s Co-op facility expansion featuring an 800,000+ bushel Chief Agri storage system in Peetz, Colorado.
Building Momentum Together
Recently, the Chief Agri team came together for our Year End Luncheon—an opportunity to celebrate the past year, reflect on the momentum we’ve built, and look ahead to what’s next.
Mark Kjar, President/General Manager, shared insights on company performance, where the industry is headed, and the importance of keeping safety at the center of everything we do. Building on that message, DJ Eihusen, CEO, Chairman of the Board, and President of Chief Industries, reinforced the values that continue to shape Chief Agri—putting people first, leading with integrity, and striving for excellence in every detail.
Most importantly, the meeting served as a reminder of what truly drives our success: the people behind the work. From our employees and leadership teams to our dealer network, customers, and industry partners, it takes all of us working together to keep building momentum across the ag industry.
We’re proud of what’s been accomplished together and excited for the opportunities ahead.
📅 Mark Your Calendar – Upcoming Trade Shows
We’re looking forward to connecting with dealers, customers, and industry partners at upcoming industry events.
Are you sharing your Chief Agri projects online? Tag@ChiefAgri so we can celebrate your hard work and share it with our followers!
We’re proud to highlight the craftsmanship across our
dealer network—your success is our story.
We Want to Hear from You
Have a project worth highlighting, a great photo, or a training topic you'd love to see covered? Let us know! We’re building this newsletter with you in mind.
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