CHS, a leading farmer-owned cooperative, and OCP North America, a subsidiary of OCP Group, recently announced a proposal for a joint venture to build and operate a phosphate fertilizer production facility at Cornerstone Energy Park in Waggaman.
The plant is expected to produce more than 1 million metric tons of phosphate-based fertilizer annually, making it the first facility of its kind constructed in the U.S. since 1984.
The project aims to strengthen domestic fertilizer production as U.S. phosphate reserves decline. The country currently imports approximately 40% of the phosphate-based fertilizer needed to meet farmer demand. If the new capacity comes online, it could reduce U.S. dependence on imported phosphate-based fertilizer by more than 48%, strengthening the domestic fertilizer supply chain.
OCP Group would supply phosphoric acid to the facility, drawing on its global phosphate expertise and resources, while CHS and OCP North America would distribute the finished products through their respective networks. The plant’s location at Cornerstone Energy Park would provide access to raw materials and transportation through the Mississippi River system.
The project is expected to create approximately 60 permanent jobs and 500 construction jobs. Construction could take up to 24 months, subject to project-related and funding approvals.
The companies have also submitted an application for potential USDA FIELDS program funding and committed to charitable giving in the greater New Orleans area.
