(Indianapolis, IN) - Two Indiana agriculture and energy cooperatives serving farmers in places such as La Porte County have merged to form Keystone Cooperative.

 

Co-Alliance Cooperative and Ceres Solutions Cooperative joined hands after both boards and memberships overwhelmingly gave final approval.

 

Kevin Still, current President and CEO of Co-Alliance, was chosen to oversee Keystone Cooperative based in Indianapolis.

 

The merger will go into effect on March 1st.

 

“Keystone Cooperative brings together two financially strong, legacy-rich, and highly successful cooperatives This historic merger creates a cooperative that is equipped to navigate the ever-changing markets of today’s agriculture and energy industries,” he said.

 

Still said the merger will maximize efficiencies, capitalize on technology, and provide the resources to enhance customer experience while preparing for the needs of future stakeholders.

 

“Our membership has recognized the value of this combination and we are looking forward to achieving our promise of a cooperative that is focused on the success of our members, the vitality of our rural communities, and providing an unparalleled return for our farmer members,” he said.

 

Currently, both cooperatives serve La Porte County, along with farmers across the state and into Michigan and Ohio.

 

Keystone Cooperative will add farmers from Illinois into the present service area.