Cargill criticized for how it runs Port Allen facility

Agribusiness giant Cargill has leased the grain elevator at the Port of Greater Baton Rouge for decades, and some farmers say another company should have a shot at running the facility that handles a quarter of Louisiana’s grain. Farmers say Cargill doesn’t pay fair market value for their crops, which influences prices throughout the state, and doesn’t keep the elevator open long enough. “The Farm Bureau does not want to lose Cargill,” says Randy Brian, a port commissioner appointed by the Bureau. “They’re just asking that Cargill work with the farmers a little better than they do.” Cargill’s lease comes up for renewal in October 2010. For the full version of this story, click here.—David Jacobs