Iron Horse Ag Breaks Ground on First Project in PCDC Business Park

Iron Horse Ag’s official groundbreaking ceremony on Thursday, July 17, marked the launch of the first development in the PCDC’s Iron Horse Business & Industry Park.

Tye and Aimee Marquardt are investing millions of dollars into Iron Horse Ag, the dry and liquid fertilizer division of Nebraskaland Aviation. The new facility will span 40,000 square feet and occupy 18 acres within the business park.

“We must acknowledge the incredible foresight, strategic vision, and thoughtful planning of PCDC in developing the Iron Horse Business & Industry Park,” Tye Marquardt said. “The 134-acre hub is equipped with seamless rail access, proximity to major highways like 6 & 34 (just 18 miles south of I-80), expandable power and utilities and shovel-ready sites that not only position Phelps County as a prime destination for agribusiness expansion but also open doors for diverse industries to thrive. Leveraging our region’s fertile lands, abundant irrigation, and cost-effective resources to drive sustainable economic growth for years to come.”

Marquardt said the new state-of-the-art plant will house up to 6,665 tons of dry storage and advanced liquid formulation fertilizer to help area farmers continue to lead the world in grain production. Phase 1 of the project, encompassing the dry fertilizer operations, is set for completion by March 1, 2026. Phase 2, which includes equipment and storage for liquid fertilizer, will roll out through 2026 and into 2027. Full operation of both facilities is expected by the end of 2027.

The project will “strengthen individual farm operations while bolstering the entire regional economy that so heavily depends on a thriving agricultural sector,” Marquardt said.

Marquardt thanked all the partners involved, including PCDC, OmniTrax, Stueve Construction, The City of Holdrege, and Black Hills Energy, Olsson, Ostgren Construction, as well as Nebraskland customers and staff.

“This park and project show why Phelps County is ideal for innovation and expansion,” Marquardt said. “To entrepreneurs in any industry: Come build your business here. With community-backed resources and a thriving agricultural foundation, you’ll find the support to succeed.”

PCDC Board President Jared Engelbert opened the ceremony by thanking PCDC board members and staff who came before him for having the foresight to purchase and develop the business park.

“We are really excited about the project,” Engelbert said. “A lot of people are noticing what we are doing here. They are noticing the greatness in Phelps County.”

Engelbert read a letter from Governor Jim Pillen, who was unable to attend. Pillen cited the importance of this project to national security and independence through Nebraska’s ability to feed its own residents. The governor said the project highlights “some of the greatest aspects of who are and what we can accomplish in Nebraska.”

“The creation of this plant will mark a major milestone for the community of Holdrege and the state of Nebraska,” Pillen said in his letter. “It will grow local business, create jobs, and strengthen our agricultural background. Congratulations to all who have and will bring this vision to life. Nebraska is stronger because of your commitment.”