FARGO, N.D. — October 1, 2025 — The Agricultural Risk Policy Center (ARPC) at North Dakota State University joined the ND AgTech Engine, Grand Farm, and NDSU’s Office of Research and Creative Activity in sponsoring the Grand Challenge: Innovations for Maintaining Excess Grain Storage.

The event tackled one of agriculture’s most pressing issues: excess grain storage. With demand projected to reach 136% of current capacity, billions of dollars in crops could be at risk of spoilage and loss if new approaches aren’t put in place.

Dr. Matthew Gammans, research economist at ARPC, was among the featured speakers. He noted that storage represents not only an operational and technical challenge but also an economic one.

“Storage is an operational, technical, and economic challenge,” Gammans said. “North Dakota’s low soybean basis presents an additional challenge for farms making marketing and storage decisions this fall. This issue will require innovative temporary storage solutions from agricultural engineers and extension professionals, while longer-term risk management policy and market development will need to play a role.”

Held on October 1 at the NDSU Memorial Union, the Grand Challenge brought together a mix of researchers, startups, and community partners. Backed by the National Science Foundation (NSF), the event underscored the value of collaboration in facing down big agricultural risks.

ARPC’s involvement in the event reflects its mission of delivering timely, policy-relevant research to support farmers, agribusinesses, and policymakers.

Media Contact:

Matthew Gammans - matthew.gammans@ndsu.edu

Agricultural Risk Policy Center (ARPC)
North Dakota State University
www.ndsu.edu/agriculture/arpc