Stockton - Temporary Load Out Accommodations

In a recent visit to the Stockton facility, I learned a little bit about some of our newest load out equipment. After spending a day installing and attempting to get the temporary load out up and running, we are very close to being able to ship product from the newest site. With a few minor meter adjustments we should be ready in no time. Unfortunately, it’s still a few months away from a finished product. The majority of the equipment has arrived; we just need a building to put it in. As you can see from the photos, it’s a work in progress.

 

 Our temporary load out office. What a view from the picture window.

 9 tanks are currently set. 9 more will be set after the building is erected. 

 North side (back of the building). As you can see the side walls are formed. They'll be poured on Monday, January 21st.

Raceway tunnel leading from the building to the rail office. Footings are formed set be poured next week. 

For What it's Worth

  

When I paid a visit to Stockton back in April of last year to meet with the building officials, I was told that construction projects are typically a slow, laborious process in California. This was confirmed by many of the contractors and everyone else familiar with the State. Based on the simplicity of our development, I disregarded these comments and figured it was all hearsay. Well, about 10 months later, the California folks have confirmed the information and proved me wrong. 

The project has been a learning experience in regards to expectations. In California, the expectations of progress are much lower than those here in Michigan (I don't think they have the internet in CA, so they probably won't see this). The subcontractors chosen for the project are doing a great job and working as diligently as they can but overzealous permitting and regulations have slowed progress dramatically.

With that said, when the facility is complete, it will be a great benefit to the company increasing market share on the west coast. The AgroLiquid philosophy of 

Responsible Nutrient Management replicates the thought process of those responsible for the environmental regulations in California and other states that share the coast line.  At least we have that in common.