CMI Terminal Joint Venture (CMI Terminal) today announced plans to develop a full service crop production centre on the site of its 18,000 tonne high throughput grain terminal located between Naicam and Spalding, Saskatchewan. CMI Terminal opened for business in 2000 and is 50% owned by CMI Terminal Ltd. and 50% by Agricore United.

The expansion will be anchored by new state-of-the art bulk fertilizer blending and crop protection facilities. Construction on the bulk fertilizer blending plant and the crop protection warehouse will commence immediately, with both facilities expected to be operational by the fall of 2004.

The crop production centre will offer a wide variety of customer services and products, including agronomic advice, the full line of Proven Seed products and access to the financing options available through Agricore United Financial. The centre will be managed and staffed by existing employees of CMI Terminal, complemented by one additional sales person and seasonal labour.

“The ability to offer both grain and crop inputs is a natural step in the evolution of CMI’s business strategy,” said Fred Draude, President of CMI Terminal Ltd. “Our customers and shareholders have told us they want the convenience of a full service grain terminal and crop production centre.”

“We are pleased to work with our joint venture partner in expanding the services offered at CMI Terminal,” said Ron Enns, Vice President, Agricore United. “Access to Agricore United Financial and our exclusive Proven Seed product line up will mean both flexibility and superior crop options for CMI Terminal customers. ”

CMI Terminal Ltd. was incorporated by a producer group based in Naicam and Spalding in 1997 and conducted a public share offering in 1999 to raise capital for a joint venture grain terminal to serve farmers in the area.

Agricore United is one of Canada’s leading agri-businesses. The prairie-based company is diversified into sales of crop inputs and services, grain merchandising, livestock production services and financial markets. Agricore United’s shares are publicly traded on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol “AU”.