South Dakota Corn Grower’s Association members are watching closely to see what happens with the possible acquisition of the Kansas City Southern Railroad by another Rail company. Both the Canadian National Railroad and Canadian National Pacific have bene submitting bids for Kansas City Southern. SDCGA President Scott Stahl says transportation is critical for corn growers in getting their goods out to export markets, so they’re monitoring closely that bidding process.

He says whatever happens with any merger or acquisition of Kansas City Southern going forward needs to be positive for South Dakota’s corn growers getting their commodity out to export markets via the Pacific Northwest.

Stahl says any port delay or negative weather impacts like the recent Hurricane IDA can have a detrimental impact on getting exports out to overseas customers.

Stahl says they’ll continue to watch any rail mergers or acquisitions and weigh in when given the opportunity.