Hi-Line Cooperative Expands in McCook, Reviving a Familiar Site with a Full-Service Agronomy Hub

McCOOK, Neb. — A familiar location in McCook’s ag community is getting new life — and a new vision — as Hi-Line Cooperative officially celebrates the opening of its expanded agronomy services facility. The business, which takes over the former site of Red Willow Chemical, aims to bring comprehensive solutions for area farmers while honoring the legacy of customer service that made the location a trusted name in local agriculture.

At a recent ribbon cutting hosted by the McCook Area Chamber of Commerce, Hi-Line leaders, employees, chamber members, and community representatives gathered to mark the occasion and share plans for the site’s future.

Building on a Strong Foundation

Billy Jones, who spoke on behalf of Hi-Line Cooperative, reflected on the deep roots the site already holds in the region’s ag economy.

“This facility has always been about customer service,” Jones said. “When I came on board with Hi-Line, I saw it as a great addition to a great team. We’re going to build on that legacy and grow from here.”

The former cash-and-carry location known for serving farmers with essential supplies is evolving into a full-service agronomy center, Jones explained. Hi-Line’s offerings will include fertilizer, chemical sales, aerial application, seed, and financing options — all designed to meet producers’ needs from start to finish.

“With the current economy, financing is more important than ever,” Jones said. “We can offer better financing for everything from seed to chemical. Our goal is to fulfill those needs and become a complete business partner for our customers.”

A Commitment to Community and Growth

Jones emphasized that the expansion is about more than just business — it’s about investing in McCook and strengthening relationships with area producers.

“We’re involved with the McCook Chamber, the radio station, and the community because we want to grow with the community,” he said. “You’re going to see a lot of improvements here. We’ll be cleaning the place up, adding fertilizer tanks, and making it something McCook can be proud of.”

That community focus was echoed by chamber representatives and local leaders who attended the ribbon cutting. Mayor Linda Taylor expressed gratitude for Hi-Line’s investment and for continuing the work of longtime local ag leader Griff Malleck, calling him “a staple” of the community.

Teamwork Across the Region

Hi-Line leaders also noted the cooperative’s regional strength and teamwork as a major asset for McCook-area customers.

“One of the advantages Hi-Line has is that we’re geographically centered,” a representative explained. “We have staff from across the trade territory who work together and support one another — and you’ll see that here in McCook too. It’s the Hi-Line way.”

Looking Ahead

With the ribbon officially cut, Hi-Line’s McCook facility is now poised to grow into a one-stop resource for local producers — offering the expertise, products, and services needed to support modern agriculture.

“This is about building something bigger,” Jones said. “We’re here to serve farmers, support the community, and continue the tradition of service this location is known for — only now, we’re taking it to the next level.”