Here it is March already and it looks like the River Grain Terminals will be opening in the next couple of weeks to begin the grain shipping season. With this in mind, please let us know if we can coordinate any of your direct shipments of grain to the river.
One subject that has gotten everyone's attention is the increase in fuel prices. It seems that OPEC is agreeing instead of fighting among themselves and the supply/demand equation has attributed to the price increase. We are uncertain when and if these fuel prices will come back down, but for now many carriers serving all industries have implemented fuel surcharges or rate increases to combat the rising fuel prices.
Our independent truckers have communicated their concerns about the increase in fuel prices and we have agreed that a rate increase of 2¢ per bushel above the previous fall grain hauling rates is appropriate. We will continue to monitor these charges closely and make appropriate adjustments as they become necessary.
One other item that I wanted to mention was the excellent attendance at the Grain Meetings that were held at Decorah and Cresco on February 15th. I hope the information that was discussed helped in making some planting and marketing decisions this year.
One of the topics that was discussed was specialty grains. There are many programs available to receive premiums for these special crops. Your cooperative is considering the possibility of handling and storing specialty grains this year. If any of you are interested, please let someone know and we will evaluate the needs and

wants of our customers to help make some decisions.
Another topic that has received some interest is a new contract that was discussed at the Grain Meetings. We are going to limit this contract to 250,000 bushels available on a first come basis. Please read more about this contract in the article "Verla's Journal"  in this newsletter.
Thank you for your business and we hope you will attend your Annual Meeting on March 14th.