As we move further into the spring season, activity across the grain storage industry continues to build, with increased momentum in planning, quoting, and project execution.
In this month’s edition of Chief Agri Insights, we’re sharing updates from across the organization—including a leadership perspective from Mark Kjar on current market conditions, engineering insight from Keaton Friesen, and an operations update from Mike Henderson focused on production readiness and efficiency.
We’re also introducing Chief Red Connect, a new initiative focused on improving access to information, communication, and support across our dealer and customer network.
Thank you for staying connected with us and for your continued interest in the work happening across our teams and throughout the industry.
Mark Kjar President/General Manager
Message from Leadership
Mark Kjar, President/General Manager
There’s been a noticeable shift in the conversations we’re having right now. More of them are moving past the early planning stage and into real decisions.
At the same time, customers are still being thoughtful about how they move forward. There’s a focus on doing things right—making sure projects are sized correctly and aligned with long-term needs, not just short-term pressure.
That balance is important. It tells us the market is active, but also disciplined.
We’re encouraged by the level of engagement we’re seeing and expect that to continue building as more projects take shape. At the same time, we’re continuing to invest in the business and build for the future. There are a lot of good things ahead, and we’re excited about where we’re going.
There’s a lot of work happening behind the scenes to keep things moving, and we appreciate that.
“There are a lot of good things ahead, and we’re excited about where we’re going.”
Keaton Friesen Structural Engineering Manager
ENGINEERING UPDATE
Keaton Friesen, Structural Engineering Manager
In this month’s Agri Insights, I wanted to touch on center bin unloading—specifically a common issue we see this time of year.
During the spring and summer months, we often receive calls from end users dealing with plugged center wells caused by fines or out-of-condition grain. This is especially common in farm storage.
When this happens, it’s important not to unload from intermediate wells. Doing so can create uneven pressure on the bin walls, which can significantly increase the risk of structural failure.
If an intermediate well is located close to the center (within roughly a ¼ radius), it may be considered as part of the unloading approach, but the bin should be closely monitored. If there are any signs of wall movement or deflection, unloading should be stopped immediately.
In cases where a bin is equipped with a side draw system and grain is still in good condition, the side draw system is often used to bring the grain level down before attempting to open any intermediate gates.
For commercial facilities, intermediate gates should remain fully closed until the center well has emptied. It’s also recommended to secure these gates to prevent them from opening unintentionally.
Each situation can vary, and when conditions are uncertain, we recommend working with experienced professionals to determine the safest approach.
To ensure proper unloading of your bin, please consult your bin manufacturer’s operational manual.
Important Reminder: Avoid unloading from intermediate wells while the center is plugged, as this can create uneven pressure on the bin walls and increase the risk of structural failure.
Mike Henderson Operations Manager
Current Production Scheduling
Projects now booking into June 2026
OPERATIONS UPDATE
Mike Henderson, Operations Manager
We’ve seen a noticeable increase in order activity over the past several weeks, and production levels are ramping up as a result.
It’s also been encouraging to see the impact of the work that’s gone into our Kearney facility over the last two years. Bringing all production departments under one roof is improving efficiency, reducing waste, and helping our teams stay aligned as we support our customers.
Investments in new equipment are also making a difference, with faster cycle times, tighter tolerances, and increased automation enhancing our overall capabilities.
New orders are currently being scheduled into early June, with flexibility to deliver farm bins sooner depending on the project.
We’re in a good position to support the continued increase in activity as more projects move forward.
RED Connect Launch
Earlier this year, Chief Agri officially launched RED Connect at GEAPS Exchange 2026 in Kansas City, connecting with operators, engineers, and industry professionals from across the grain handling industry.
The response to RED Connect generated thoughtful questions and valuable conversations around operational insight, connectivity, and system monitoring. We appreciated the opportunity to share the platform with attendees and discuss how facilities are thinking about the future of grain operations.
To learn more about RED Connect, explore the resources below.
When a 100 mph storm destroyed a 725,000-bushel bin at Manning Grain just weeks before harvest, the team faced a critical challenge. What followed was a rapid, coordinated effort to rebuild and restore full capacity in time for harvest.
Read how fast action and strong partnerships made it possible.
The 2026 Loyalty Trip to Puerto Rico was a celebration of the momentum our dealers build every day through strong relationships, consistency, and trust.
Throughout the week, we had the opportunity to connect, recharge, and strengthen relationships that continue to drive success across our dealers and partners.
We also recognized our Presidents Club members—visionary leaders who continue to shape the future of our industry through their commitment, leadership, and results.
This trip is more than a getaway; it reflects the shared momentum that defines this group and the meaningful work being done together.
“Built on relationships, strengthened through shared success.”
📱 Connect With Us
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.
.png?upscale=true&width=1200&upscale=true&name=Agri%20(1).png)
