Grain Terminal Reopens at Burns Harbor Port

Louis Dreyfus Takes over Midwest Export Hub for Corn and Soy

Ports of Indiana has chosen Louis Dreyfus Company (LDC) to manage the grain terminal at Burns Harbor, reopening a major agricultural export facility on Lake Michigan.

The terminal, closed in 2023, will resume operations in 2026, strengthening Indiana’s position in global grain trade.

Since its opening in 1979, the terminal has exported over 500 million bushels of corn and soybeans. Under LDC’s management, the facility will again serve as a vital gateway to international markets for regional farmers.

“Combining LDC’s extensive resources with one of the most robust grain export facilities on the Great Lakes provides critical access to global markets for regional farmers,” said Ports of Indiana CEO Jody Peacock.

LDC, with U.S. operations since 1909, is one of the world’s largest agri-commodity firms. It currently operates the largest soybean crushing and biodiesel facility in the U.S. in Claypool, Indiana.

Gordon Russell of LDC stated, “The port will be a strategic asset for LDC to expand market access for regional farmers and serve customers in North America and abroad.”

Burns Harbor is a key multimodal port, offering access to 16 railroads and connections through the Great Lakes, St. Lawrence Seaway, and inland waterways.

The grain terminal has capacity for 7.2 million bushels and can load 90,000 bushels per hour onto ocean vessels.

“This terminal is one of the leading export facilities in the Midwest,” said Ryan McCoy, Port Director. “LDC’s investment will sharpen its competitive edge and help our region expand its multimodal capabilities and grow global trade.”

This partnership is expected to bring new opportunities to the region’s farmers and strengthen the agri-export infrastructure in the Midwest.