Celebrating 30 Years of Independence: Peterson Farms Seed’s Journey
In 2025, Peterson Farms Seed proudly marks its 30th anniversary—a milestone that underscores our unwavering commitment to independence and local ownership.
Founded in 1995 by Carl and Julie Peterson, our journey began with a vision to serve the agricultural community with integrity and dedication.
From day one, we’ve stayed true to our roots—independent, family-owned and deeply connected to the growers of Minnesota, North Dakota and South Dakota. That commitment has shaped every decision we’ve made and continues to drive us as we look toward the future.
Our Roots: A Commitment to Independence
The early 1990s were challenging times for agriculture in the Red River Valley. In 1993, amidst the aftermath of a national farm crisis and the onset of wheat scab, Carl and Julie invested in seed-cleaning equipment to salvage their grain crop. This effort not only helped their own farm but also supported neighboring farmers, laying the foundation for what would become Peterson Farms Seed.
In 1995, they officially launched the company with a simple but powerful goal: to offer seed they would confidently plant on their own farm. That principle still guides every product we bring to market.
Growth Through Innovation and Community Focus
Over the past three decades, we’ve grown by embracing innovation and staying focused on the needs of our region’s farmers. In 1998, we were early adopters of Roundup Ready soybeans, recognizing the potential of biotechnology to improve yields and simplify weed control. We expanded again in 2003, introducing corn hybrids bred specifically for northern climates—solutions tailored to the fields we know best.
Today, our research program includes more than 40,000 soybean and corn plots, all rigorously tested in our regional environment. Our crop research organization, now the largest in our geography, has earned a reputation for delivering the highest quality data.
It’s become a national resource, offering contract testing to ag and technology companies across the country. And because we remain independent, we’re free to select from the best genetics and trait platforms—whatever delivers the most value to our growers.
Focused on Farmer Success
Helping growers succeed has always been at the heart of what we do—and it goes far beyond the seed. Our commitment to farmer success shows up in the programs, tools and events we offer throughout the year.
Our Plus20 initiative is designed to help growers find those extra bushels. Through in-depth research and data analysis, Plus20 identifies practices that drive higher yields and profitability—turning insights into action on real farms across our region.
With our Cup of Agronomy series, we bring timely, trusted agronomic advice straight to growers’ hometowns. From planting tips to pest updates and harvest strategies, these community get-togethers keep growers informed in a practical, easy-to-digest format (coffee optional but recommended).
Pingree Transload LLC is a state-of-the-art grain processing, handling and transportation facility just north of Pingree, North Dakota
In 2024, we expanded our grower support network with the opening of Pingree Transload LLC—a state-of-the-art grain processing, handling and transportation facility just north of Pingree, North Dakota. Built in partnership with Peterson Farms Seed, this 63-acre site offers critical infrastructure for identity-preserved (IP) and value-added grain projects, giving growers access to specialty markets and the potential for significant premiums.
This new facility builds on our decades of experience with IP grain and strengthens our ability to help farmers tap into emerging market opportunities. It’s another way we’re investing in the future of regional agriculture and helping farmers grow smarter, stronger and more profitably.
These efforts—along with regular newsletters, on-farm visits, local plot tours and in-season updates—reflect our belief that strong partnerships grow stronger yields. When our growers succeed, we succeed.
Looking Ahead: The Next 30 Years
As we celebrate this 30-year milestone, our commitment to remaining an independent, locally owned company is stronger than ever. We believe that our independence resonates with our grower-customers, allowing us to offer personalized service and seed solutions tailored to the unique challenges of our region.
Looking ahead, growers can be confident that we’ll continue investing in research and development, embracing innovative technologies and, most importantly, standing alongside them in pursuit of success. Our promise is to uphold the values that have defined us for the past 30 years as we take the next steps forward.
To our loyal customers, dedicated employees and supportive community: thank you for being an integral part of our story. Here’s to the next 30 years of growth, innovation and shared success.
