MKC’s Optimal Eco Asset Program Delivers $5M to Farmers
Mar 24, 2025
WICHITA, Kansas (March 24, 2025) - MKC, a farmer-owned cooperative based in Kansas, has delivered $5 million to its members through its Optimal Eco Asset™ program over the past two years. The program connects farmers with consumer packaged goods (CPG) companies that financially reward specific regenerative ag practices, commonly associated with carbon reduction. MKC has linked over 250,000 qualified acres in Kansas, Missouri, and Oklahoma to strategic partners needing grain that meets carbon input standards.
“Farmers in this area have been implementing conservation practices for decades,” says Scott Barkley, Chief Revenue Officer. “Through our Optimal Eco Asset program, we have been able to connect our members with CPG companies that find value in those practices and are willing to reward farmers for their efforts.”
Rather than being committed to one provider, MKC’s Optimal Eco Asset program allows its members to select from multiple partners to pick the offers that fit their practices for the maximum return. This flexibility is vital as the sustainability market continues to rapidly change.
Crop diversification and progressive farmers make this area attractive to companies looking for sustainably grown grain. “We continue to have conversations with new partners that are interested in grain from this area,” says Devin Schierling, Vice President of Sales. “It says a lot about the farmers in our area and their willingness to try new innovations that make their operation more profitable and thinking about their farms as an eco-asset.”
MKC has recently added a Conservation Agronomist to its staff to help its members maximize soil health and sustainability efforts for the best agronomic benefit. Focusing on these practices increases the value of the farmers' soil eco asset to qualify for current and potential programs. Examples of current practice adoption that may qualify include adding stabilizers to nitrogen applications, planting cover crops, or having a nutrient management plan.
“Programs, requirements, and soil health practices are constantly changing,” says Ross Benisch, Ag Technology Manager. “Having a Conservation Agronomist on the team will help our farmers identify the soil health practices that have the greatest return on investment for their operation, which increases the value of the eco-asset. Together with the farmer, the Conservation Agronomist can then help navigate the sustainability market to find the best ROI for their eco asset.”
Headquartered in central Kansas, MKC is a significant player in the agri-business sector, known for its innovative practices and key partnerships. One notable collaboration is with Producer Ag LLC, a joint venture with CHS, the world's largest cooperative. This partnership opens new grain market opportunities for local farmers, enhancing their sustainability and profitability. Additionally, MKC continues to invest in cutting-edge technology like John Deere’s See and Spray™ for precision crop protection applications. The Optimal Eco Asset program is the latest example of MKC bringing additional value to its members.
About MKC
Founded in 1965, MKC is a member-owned farm service cooperative that serves over 19,000 members and customers in Colorado, Kansas, Missouri, and Oklahoma. It operates 57 locations and 3 rail terminals with over 500 employees living in 150 communities. MKC focuses on five business units: agronomy, animal nutrition, energy, grain, and risk management services. It is headquartered in Moundridge, KS.
For further information, the news media should contact James Coday, Vice President of Marketing, MKC. james.coday@mkcoop.com
###