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Built Around What Works for Andrea Flemming | Accu-Steel Fabric Covered Buildings

Paige Klein — Thu, 18 Jun 2026 05:00:00 GMT

Built Around What Works: Calving 2026 Recap

Year after year, southwest Minnesota farmer Andrea Flemming (@ThatFitAgvocate) keeps finding new ways to make the most of her Accu-Steel building. This spring, we checked in with her on how calving season went—and what she’s already planning for next time.

Third year’s the charm
Finding the right barn system
Calving 2026 by the numbers
More than a calving barn
What she’d change for her next barn

Third year’s the charm

There’s a rhythm to farming that only comes with repetition. The first year, you survive. The second year, you adjust. By the third year, you start to own it.

That’s exactly where Andrea Flemming finds herself now on her family’s fifth-generation farm in southwest Minnesota. Multiple calving seasons into her Accu-Steel fabric-covered cattle building, this spring was about fine-tuning everything inside.

“I feel like this was the year we really locked in most of the systems,” Andrea said. “The growing pains of building a barn and going confinement—we worked through a lot of that.”

Finding the right calving barn system

For Andrea, “locking it in” means something specific. Health protocols. Vaccination timing. How often the alley gets scraped. How pairs get sorted after calving. This year, she leaned into a modified version of the Sandhills calving method—gating pens by calf age to reduce disease exposure—while dialing in the cadence of day-to-day barn management.

The results showed up in the numbers. Their calving window tightened significantly, with well over half the herd calving two weeks earlier than the prior year. Health problems were down compared to last season. And the overall pace felt more consistent—fewer dramatic swings, more steady progress.

“It just went a lot smoother,” she said. “Slowly but surely, we’re getting there.” The controlled environment the barn provides is the foundation that makes that kind of fine-tuning possible. When weather isn’t the variable it used to be, everything else becomes easier to manage.

Calving 2026 by the numbers

This season, Andrea’s operation welcomed 195 calves, which is right in the sweet spot for their current setup. After an earlier year pushing past 220 and running into bottlenecks when the feedlot filled up during spring turnout, she’s found that 190–200 is the goldilocks number that keeps everything manageable without leaving capacity on the table.

“It was a safe and healthy calving season for everyone,” she said. “Perfectly boring—and we love that.”

Three sets of twins this year. A calving window that kept tightening. And for the first time in a few seasons, no weather emergencies worth losing sleep over.

More than a calving barn

One of the things Andrea keeps coming back to is flexibility. Her Accu-Steel building was designed around calving season, but it doesn’t stop earning its keep when the last calf hits the ground.

She’s already thinking about using the space for heifer development—keeping replacement heifers in the barn rather than an outside lot—and has had conversations about backgrounding calves through the summer months to create more consistent cash flow before cows come back in for winter.

“That’s why we went with Accu-Steel,” she said. “It works for more than one thing.”

That kind of multi-season utility is exactly what Accu-Steel’s cattle buildings are designed for: purpose-built around your operation, not the other way around.

What she’d change for her next barn

Ask any producer who’s spent real time in a building what they’d do differently, and you’ll learn more than any spec sheet can tell you. Andrea doesn’t hesitate.

Here’s her current wishlist:

A wider concrete apron along the feed alley—something she notices every time equipment has to maneuver in tight quarters.
An alleyway down the middle of a future barn to store manure, park equipment, stash extra bedding, or hold pairs without making a dozen trips from one end to the other.
Built-in gates and alleys that make sorting and moving cattle easier, without having to take apart panels along the way.

“When you’re making six trips down the barn carrying stuff,” she said, “fifty-four feet starts to feel a lot further than it looks.”

None of this is criticism. It’s the kind of hard-won operational knowledge that only comes from actually using a building, season after season. And for Andrea, it’s already shaping what the next barn looks like.

“Dad says it depends on the markets,” she said. “But the conversation is already happening.”

That’s the thing about a building that works: it doesn’t take long before you start thinking about the next one.

Ready to think through what your cattle facility could look like? Get in touch with the Accu-Steel team—we’ll start with your operation and work from there.

Get Your Free Quote

From the Ground Up | Accu-Steel Fabric Covered Buildings

Paige Klein — Wed, 20 May 2026 05:00:00 GMT

Some companies are built to be sold. Accu-Steel was built to last.

For 25 years, founder Jason Owen ran this company the same way he ran his century farm in Audubon, Iowa—with his hands in it, his name on it, and his neighbors watching. Every building that left this facility reflected a decision he made, a problem he helped solve, a customer he actually knew.

That kind of ownership doesn’t transfer on a spreadsheet. It transfers through people.

Below, in his own words, Jason reflects on what he built, why he built it the way he did, and what comes next for Accu-Steel.

By Jason Owen, Founder, Accu-Steel

Stepping back from something you’ve spent more than 25 years building gives you a different vantage point. You start to see not just what you created, but every person who helped you create it—the employees who showed up, the partners who believed in you before you’d earned it, the customers who trusted you with problems that mattered to their livelihoods.

I’ve watched others in this industry make a different choice. Private equity offers a clean exit and a strong return. I understand the appeal. But when you’ve built a company on a century farm, in a community where everyone knows everyone, with employees who have families and customers who depend on you—maximizing your personal return stops feeling like the right measure of success.

I chose a different path. I’ve transitioned Accu-Steel to John Klehn, a leader who has been inside this company, who understands what we stand for, and who is bringing real resources and capable partners to grow what we built without dismantling it. The roots of this company remain in northern Audubon County. The culture stays intact. The people stay. That was the only version of this transition I was willing to make.

It didn’t start with Accu-Steel. It started earlier, with a group called Con-E-Co out of Blair, Nebraska, who trusted an Iowa farm kid to work hard and be responsible. That experience—building AMANCO from the ground up in western Iowa—taught me what it meant to earn trust in a community through manufacturing. I’ve never forgotten it.

When I founded Accu-Steel in 2001, I knew what kind of company I wanted to build. Not the easiest kind. The right kind.

None of it would have been possible without partners who believed in the vision before the results were there to justify it. Templeton Savings Bank was with me from the beginning—not as a lender who hedged every bet, but as a true financial partner who helped me make the right decisions at the right time. That kind of local, community-invested financing is something I hope Iowa never loses.

Over 30 years, Accu-Steel grew from a regional livestock fabricator into a global manufacturer—with thousands of buildings across more than 40 states, and projects in Canada, Mexico, Europe, Africa, and the Middle East.

What I’m most proud of isn’t the scale. It’s the range of problems we got to solve.

We worked with cattle producers to design buildings that brought the next generation back to the farm. We manufactured the largest grain storage fabric structure of its kind in Arcadia, Iowa. We delivered the largest salt storage building in the United Kingdom. We built rocket engine test facilities, a Bitcoin mining complex in Alabama, a custom roping arena in Stephenville, Texas, and structures supporting military operations around the world.

And then there’s the Iowa Craft Beer Tent at the Iowa State Fairgrounds—which might be my favorite project of all. For 15 years, that tent has given friends and families a place to gather every August and celebrate what makes Iowa worth fighting for: its people. I’m proud every time I walk through it.

What tied all of it together was the same thing every time: talented people, complex problems, and a product we could design and manufacture on my family’s century farm. That’s a rare thing. I never took it for granted.

To my parents, the extended Peck and Owen families, my children and their mother, and the Brinker family—thank you. Thirty years is a long time to ask the people you love to share you with something you’re building. I don’t take that for granted.

To every employee, partner, supplier, installer, and dealer who brought their best to this company: you are the reason Accu-Steel became what it is. I’m grateful for every one of you.

The last 30 years weren’t without difficulty. Economic downturns, wars, tariffs, weather, markets—this business has weathered all of it. Through every one of those cycles, we never missed a payroll on Friday. We paid our bills, treated people fairly, and tried to make a positive impact on the lives around us. I’m proud of that record.

Accu-Steel is in good hands. John Klehn understands this company—its values, its customers, its potential—and he’s bringing the resources and partners to grow it in ways I couldn’t alone. I’m confident in what comes next.

To our dealers, customers, and the communities we serve: thank you for trusting us. That trust was never something we took lightly, and it won’t be now.

God Bless.

Jason Owen

Founder, Accu-Steel

How Dickson County Improved Salt Storage Operations | Accu-Steel Fabric Covered Buildings

Paige Klein — Mon, 27 Apr 2026 05:00:00 GMT

Built Around Faster Service for Dickson County

Just west of Nashville, Dickson County is a growing community of roughly 55,000 residents. With easy access to I-40, a steady flow of commuters, and destinations like Montgomery Bell State Park and The Wonders Center, the county sees consistent traffic tied to both daily routines and tourism.

For the Dickson County Highway Department, that means maintaining roads that serve more than just local travel. The team is responsible for paving, grading, ditching, tar and sealing, and handling winter operations like salting and snow removal. Whether it’s getting residents to work or keeping access open to parks, events, and local businesses, road conditions matter.

This becomes even more important in the winter. Middle Tennessee weather can be unpredictable, with ice events and temperature swings that make timing critical. And for years, salt storage was one of the things slowing that response down.

A setup that cost more time and more resources

Before moving to a new facility, the department was working with limited storage capacity and a setup that wasn’t built for the volume they needed to handle. They originally stored salt in a smaller concrete structure that added extra steps to the process.

“You had to back your trucks in and then use equipment to push the material where you needed it,” said Brian Armstrong, Assistant Road Superintendent. “It just wasn’t very efficient.”

Brian was closely involved in evaluating and selecting the new storage solution, given his hands-on role in day-to-day operations. His perspective made the inefficiencies of their original setup hard to ignore. Not to mention, there were also issues with exposure.

“With one end open, we’d get rainwater in there,” Brian said. “That affected our material.”

It worked, but it was inefficient and an unnecessary use of time and taxpayer dollars. Crews often worked around the setup instead of with it. As the county grew and expectations around road service increased, it became harder to justify sticking with the same approach.

“We knew we needed to have proper salt storage in order to better serve our community when we moved to our new facility,” said Jackie Hodges, Chief Administrative Officer for the Highway Department.

Jackie has been with the department since 2007 and has seen how expectations around road maintenance have evolved over time. With more people relying on consistent access across the county, the need for a more reliable storage solution became clear.

Key Takeaways:

Dickson County’s previous salt storage setup required extra equipment steps and manual repositioning, making the loading process slow and labor-intensive.
An open-ended structure left the salt exposed to rainwater, compromising material quality before it ever hit the road.
As the country grew, an inefficient storage setup became harder to justify—both operationally and for taxpayers.
Leadership recognized that proper salt storage was essential to reliably serving their community.

Simplifying the process from purchase to operations

Dickson County wanted to keep a simple approach when it came time to invest in a new structure. They needed something that would work with their operations, not against them, and be easy to move forward with, and worked with Christopher Brown of Ridgeside Agriculture Services to find a solution.

“One of the reasons we decided to go with Accu-Steel was because going through Sourcewell made it a lot more straightforward,” Brian said. “We could skip the pain of a full bid process.” The department ultimately selected a 40’ x 64’ Accu-Steel HP Advantage building, designed to handle bulk material storage while standing up to demanding environments.

Once the building was in place, the impact was immediate. Crews can now bring a full dump truck inside and raise the bed to unload instead of backing in and moving material with additional equipment. The enclosed structure also helps protect material from the elements by reducing moisture exposure and helping maintain consistent quality.

Key Takeaways:

Dickson County used Sourcewell to streamline procurement, bypassing the full bid process and simplifying the path to purchase.
With the new facility, crews can drive a full dump truck inside and raise the bed to unload—eliminating the extra steps from their old setup.

Keeping crews moving during winter

The new building streamlined day-to-day operations and improved turnaround times during winter events. It also eliminated the need to reposition material, which previously slowed down loading during peak demand.

“It’s made it easier and quicker for us to get trucks loaded and back out on the road,” Jackie said. “That’s what really matters for our team.”

During a recent winter event, having more efficient access to material helped crews stay focused on the road instead of the logistics of loading. Less handling and fewer delays means crews spend more time treating roads. Over the course of a storm, that difference adds up.

The new setup has also shifted how the department is thinking about coverage at a larger scale.

“This Accu-Steel building has had such a positive impact on our county, that we’d ideally like to have two: one on the north end of our county and another on the south end,” Brian said. “That way our team doesn’t have to drive all the way back just to reload.”

With a second building on the horizon, the department is looking to further reduce travel time and improve response across the county.

Key Takeaways:

The new Accu-Steel Advantage salt storage building eliminated the need to reposition the material during load, reducing delays when demand is highest.
Faster truck turnaround means crews spend more time treating roads and less time managing logistics.
Dickson County is now exploring a second Accu-Steel building. The two-building strategy (one at each end of the county) would reduce travel time for crews and allow faster reloading.

Built to support the work behind the scenes

At the end of the day, this investment comes down to making the work more manageable for the crew and more consistent when conditions get tough.

“With better salt storage, we can get out quicker and stay out longer during winter storms,” Jackie said. “It allows us to better serve the community with the right infrastructure in place.”

It means shorter turnaround times and more consistent road treatment as conditions change. For Dickson County, it’s a practical improvement that supports both the crew doing the work and the people who rely on it every day.

Confinement Barns and Modern Cattle Management | Accu-Steel Fabric Covered Buildings

Paige Klein — Fri, 03 Apr 2026 05:00:00 GMT

Built Around What’s Next: How One Tennessee Operation Is Rethinking Cattle Management

In Red Boiling Springs, Tennessee, cattle producer Nick Patterson is thinking beyond today’s operation.

As the incoming president of the Tennessee Cattlemen’s Association, Nick has a front-row seat to the challenges facing producers—from shrinking pastureland and rising input costs to declining herd numbers. But on his own operation, Acres of Grace, he’s taking a proactive approach to what comes next.

For Nick, that starts with rethinking how cattle are managed, and how infrastructure can support a more efficient, resilient future.

Making the most of each acre in a shrinking landscape
From pasture feeding to 25% feed savings under roof
Expanding into data-driven cattle management
Turning manure into a new revenue stream
Structuring the investment to pay the way
Investing in the next generation
Built for a changing cattle industry

Making the most of each acre in a shrinking landscape

Nick has seen firsthand how quickly the landscape is changing in the Southeast.

“Tennessee has been losing roughly nine acres of farmland every hour over the past several years,” he explains. “Land prices also have gone up, which makes it harder to rely on traditional grazing alone.”

Those shifts are already showing up in herd numbers. According to Nick, the state has lost an estimated half a million head of cattle over the past couple decades, a trend that reflects just how difficult it’s becoming to sustain traditional production models.

Rather than expanding acreage, Nick looked for ways to get more out of the land he already had.

By concentrating cattle in a controlled environment, the operation has been able to reduce pressure on pasture ground while improving consistency in feeding and care. This makes barns a realistic way to conserve land while continuing to raise cattle efficiently in a changing environment.

From pasture feeding to 25% feed savings under roof

The idea didn’t come overnight. Nick had been researching confinement barns for nearly a decade, influenced by his background as a veterinarian and time spent observing other production systems. But one of the clearest signs actually came from his own cattle.

“We had an old tobacco barn and, no matter the season, the cows would find their way into it,” he says. “That made sense in the winter, but they were still doing the same thing in the middle of summer. I think they were trying to tell me something.”

That realization and increasing pressure on land efficiency ultimately led Nick to invest in a 62′ x 224′ Accu-Steel Integrity™ building, bringing a portion of his herd under roof for the first time.

The results from pasture-based feeding to a more controlled environment didn’t take long to show results.

“We’re seeing about a 25% feed savings compared to feeding out on pasture,” Nick says.

Those savings add up quickly for 90 cow-calf pairs over a winter feeding period, helping offset the cost of the building while improving overall efficiency.

But feed savings are just one piece of the equation.

Bringing cattle under roof has also:

Reduced labor by centralizing feeding and daily management.
Improved cattle comfort by minimizing exposure to mud and extreme weather.
Created a more controlled environment for herd health and reproductive management.

“It’s changed how we manage cattle day-to-day,” Nick notes. “Everything is more consistent and I have better peace of mind for my cattle’s health. They actually got a bit fat over the winter, which is really saying something!”

Expanding into data-driven cattle management

Nick isn’t stopping with one building.

A new 600-foot confinement facility is currently in progress and designed specifically for heifer development and more advanced cattle management practices.

The new barn will incorporate feed intake monitoring technology, allowing Nick to track individual animal performance—including consumption and weight gain. That data will play a key role in improving breeding decisions when evaluating genomics and expected progeny differences (EPDs).

“It gives us another layer of insight,” he says. “We can make more informed decisions based on real data instead of just observation.”

Turning manure into a new revenue stream

One of the biggest advantages of the confinement approach has been the ability to capture and reuse manure, which wasn’t possible at the same scale with pasture-based feeding.

That’s opening the door to an entirely new revenue stream for Acres of Grace.

The operation already runs a mulch and soil business and Nick plans to expand into cattle manure-based compost for the lawn and garden market.

“We’re collecting a significant amount of material that can be turned into a high-value product,” he explains. “It’s something that adds another layer of return from the same investment.”

It also supports a more sustainable system, recycling nutrients back into crop ground and reducing waste.

Key Takeaways:

Data-driven decisions are reshaping cattle management
Confinement feeding unlocks manure as a revenue opportunity
Sustainability and profitability can go hand-in-hand

Structuring the investment to pay the way

Like any major investment, building new infrastructure requires careful financial planning.

For Nick, that meant leveraging equity in farmland and working with Farm Credit to secure longer-term financing.

“It’s about balancing upfront cost with long-term return,” he says.

These barns are designed to support both cash flow and long-term asset growth through feed savings, improved efficiency, and the added value of manure-based products.

“They’re not just a cost, they’re part of the operation’s future.”

A variety of financing options may be available for producers considering a similar investment. Programs through the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), along with guidance from Accu-Steel, can help find solutions that fit your operation and long-term goals.

Investing in the next generation

The value of these buildings goes beyond economics for Nick and Acres of Grace.

The operation regularly hosts school tours, youth events, and educational programs to connect the next generation with agriculture.

“I want kids to understand where their food comes from and see opportunities in this industry,” he says.

That same mindset carries into how he thinks about the farm’s future.

“These buildings are something my kids can build on,” Nick says. “I want to leave them a legacy of good decisions.”

As land becomes harder to access and the industry continues to evolve, having the right infrastructure in place can make all the difference.

Key Takeaways:

Smart financing turns big infrastructure into a long-term asset
NCRS programs and industry partners can help make confinement builds more accessible
The right infrastructure is an investment in the farm’s future generations

Built for a changing cattle industry

Producers across the Southeast and across the U.S. are facing the same reality: less available land, higher costs, and increasing pressure to do more with fewer resources.

For Nick, confinement barns have become a realistic way to meet those needs.

“It’s not about replacing pasture,” he explains. “It’s about using everything more efficiently.”

That mindset has shaped more than a single investment at Acres of Grace. It’s created a system that supports day-to-day efficiency, long-term growth, and future opportunities for the next generation.

His advice to other producers is straightforward:

“Look at your operation and your long-term goals. If you manage it right, a facility like this can change what you’re able to do.”

Because in today’s environment, the right infrastructure isn’t just about solving today’s challenges—it’s about building an operation that’s ready for what comes next.

Fertilizer Facility Corrosion Control Guide | Accu-Steel Fabric Covered Buildings

Paige Klein — Wed, 25 Feb 2026 06:00:00 GMT

Winning the Fight Against Corrosion in Fertilizer Facilities

A version of Tony’s article was first published in the Jan/Feb 2026 issue of Fertilizer Focus.

Corrosion is one of the most persistent and misunderstood challenges in fertilizer facility design. Engineers and facility designers know the stakes: Chloride-based fertilizers are inherently aggressive. Dust attracts moisture. Temperature swings create condensation cycles. And once corrosion starts, it rarely announces itself politely.

The goal is not to eliminate corrosion entirely. (It’s just not realistic.) Instead, the goal is to slow it intentionally, predictably, and systematically so that service life, safety, and structural integrity are preserved.

Below is a practical guide to how corrosion develops in fertilizer operations, and how thoughtful design decisions can dramatically reduce long-term risk.

What causes corrosion in fertilizer facilities?
How do chloride fertilizers accelerate steel deterioration?
Why does ventilation matter so much?
What materials perform best in fertilizer environments?
What maintenance practices actually make a difference?

What causes corrosion in fertilizer facilities?

Corrosion in fertilizer operations is typically the result of chemistry, moisture, and design interacting over time.

Chloride-containing fertilizers such as urea, potash, and ammonium chloride are naturally aggressive toward metal. Fertilizer dust compounds the issue. Dust absorbs moisture from the air and holds it against steel surfaces, often in areas that are difficult to see or inspect.

High humidity, limited airflow, and repeated condensation cycles accelerate deterioration. In enclosed or partially enclosed spaces, moisture lingers. In regions with large temperature swings, condensation forms and dries repeatedly, stressing coatings and exposed steel.

Key takeaways:

Corrosion in fertilizer facilities is driven by chlorides + moisture + trapped air.
Dust accumulation creates hidden corrosion risk zones.
Environmental control and structural design influence long-term performance as much as coating choice.
Corrosion is not simply a materials issue, but an environmental systems issue.

How do chloride fertilizers accelerate steel deterioration?

Chlorides aggressively attack steel once moisture is present. This reaction can occur on structural beams, conveyor housings, support framing, blending equipment, and connection points.

One common misconception is that corrosion will always appear on the surface first. However, deterioration often begins under dust, inside joints, or in concealed structural areas. By the time visible rust appears, structural damage may already be underway.

Another misconception is that corrosion can be completely prevented. In fertilizer environments, that is not achievable. What is achievable, though, is extending service life through deliberate design decisions.

At Accu-Steel, we approach fertilizer applications with that reality in mind. Our role is to engineer durability from the start.

Key takeaways:

Chlorides become highly corrosive when combined with moisture.
Hidden areas are often the first failure points.
The objective is life extension through systems-level design.

Why does ventilation matter so much?

If there is one universal design strategy that consistently reduces corrosion risk, it’s airflow.

Moisture is a primary driver of steel deterioration in fertilizer facilities. Ventilation reduces humidity, minimizes condensation cycles, and allows surfaces to dry more quickly.

Clear-span structures with open end walls, soffit ventilation, and peak venting help move air through storage and blending areas. Improving air movement around structural members and equipment slows corrosion development across the entire system.

Ventilation alone is not enough—but without it, even premium materials will corrode.

This is one reason flat storage facilities are often advantageous in fertilizer applications. They allow for deliberate airflow planning while maintaining product protection.

Key takeaways:

Ventilation reduces moisture retention and condensation cycles.
Clear-span structures improve air movement and inspection access.
Airflow strategy should be integrated early in facility design.

What materials perform best in fertilizer environments?

No material is completely corrosion-proof. But some perform significantly better than others. Hot-dipped galvanized steel remains one of the most durable and cost-effective corrosion protection systems for fertilizer facilities. The metallurgical bond formed during batch hot-dip galvanizing creates zinc-iron alloy layers that are significantly thicker and stronger than in-line continuous galvanizing.

For context:

Batch hot-dip galvanizing typically applies ~3.0 mils of zinc coating.
In-line continuous processes apply ~0.9 mils.
The metallurgical bond strength of batch galvanizing approaches 3600 psi, compared to 300-500 psi for mechanically bonded zinc-rich paints.

That difference matters. Especially in concealed or interior surfaces where trapped moisture is common.

At Accu-Steel, our structural components are hot-dipped galvanized to provide long-term durability in high-moisture, chloride-heavy environments. This contributes to our industry-leading 20-year warranty (with an additional five years available for Sourcewell members).

Material selection should also minimize dissimilar metal contact and eliminate areas where fertilizer residue can collect. Design and material choice must work together.

Key takeaways:

Batch hot-dip galvanizing provides thicker, metallurgically-bonded protection.
Bond strength and coating thickness significantly impact service life.
Corrosion resistance must include interior surfaces, not just exterior steel.

What maintenance practices actually make a difference?

Design sets the foundation. Maintenance protects the investment.

Two practices consistently deliver the highest impact:

Regular cleaning to remove fertilizer dust accumulation.
Routine inspections to identify early pitting or discoloration.

Since corrosion often develops out of sight, inspection protocols should include joints, concealed structural areas, equipment housings, and interior framing. When issues are caught early, they’re manageable. When ignored, they become structural liabilities.

For example, we worked with Aspinwall Co-op to repair a competitor’s building that suffered from severe corrosion, storm damage, and a deteriorated tarp after only 14 years of use. With nearly 12,600 tons of fertilizer at risk, we quickly replaced the structure with hot-dipped galvanized steel trusses.

Key takeaways:

Cleaning and inspection significantly extend service life.
Hidden corrosion points require deliberate monitoring.
Proactive facility design reduces long-term repair costs.

Corrosion will always be a factor in fertilizer operations. The difference lies in whether it’s managed intentionally or allowed to dictate service life.

For engineers and facility designers, corrosion control is the result of ventilation planning, material selection, structural detailing, and long-term maintenance alignment.

When those elements work together, fertilizer facilities become safer, more durable, and more predictable. That predictability is what protects capital investments and what allows operations to run without unnecessary disruption.

If you are designing or upgrading a fertilizer storage facility and want to evaluate corrosion-resistant structural options, our engineering team is always available to talk through your specifications.

Closing the Grain Storage Capacity Gap Starts With Planning | Accu-Steel Fabric Covered Buildings

Paige Klein — Mon, 19 Jan 2026 06:00:00 GMT

Grain storage has been under pressure for a while now and it’s not letting up. Strong yields and rising carryover continue to push facilities to their limits. And while harvest totals grab attention, the real strain shows up on the ground: longer lines, tighter receiving windows, and tough decisions about where grain can go.

For co-ops and grain operations, storage planning today is less about adding space and more about keeping the entire system moving. That starts with planning ahead, not reacting once bins are full.

Why the storage gap keeps growing
Operational pressure shows up everywhere
Flat storage as a strategic capacity tool
Rethinking “temporary” storage solutions
Planning for efficiency, not just volume

Why the storage gap keeps growing

The storage gap is the result of steady yield growth paired with slow infrastructure expansion. Production keeps climbing, while new commercial storage struggles to keep pace (especially across the Midwest).

Carryover grain only adds to the pressure, tightening space before the next harvest even begins. Over time, that imbalance turns into an operational problem, not just a capacity one.

Key takeaways

Storage growth hasn’t matched multi-year yield trends.
Carryover grain reduces available space early.
Capacity gaps show up first in day-to-day operations.

Operational pressure shows up everywhere

When storage runs tight, everything slows down. Receiving hours are limited. Truck lines grow. Crews are stretched. In some cases, facilities are forced to stop taking grain altogether.

These challenges don’t just affect the elevator. They impact producers, haulers, and staff across the system. Storage decisions directly influence how efficiently grain moves during peak demand.

Key takeaways:

Capacity limits affect receiving hours and traffic flow.
Congestion increases labor strain and delays.
Throughput matters as much as total storage volume.

Flat storage as a strategic capacity tool

More co-ops are turning to flat grain storage because it adds capacity quickly and fits into existing operations. Large clear-span interiors support efficient unloading, easier equipment movement, and high-throughput grain flow. When designed well, flat storage complements bin systems by providing flexibility during peak periods.

It’s not about replacing what already works—it’s about adding control where it’s needed most.

Key takeaways

Flat storage allows faster capacity expansion than bins.
Open layouts support efficient grain handling.
Flexible designs adapt to changing volumes and markets.

Rethinking “temporary” grain storage solutions

Outdoor piles may start as a short-term fix, but for many operations they’ve become routine. That comes with trade-offs: added labor, recurring tarp costs, and greater exposure to moisture and spoilage. Over time, those risks add up.

Covered storage reduces those variables. Combined with modern aeration and monitoring systems, it gives operators more control over grain quality while reducing manual checks.

Outdoor piles = greater risk

recurring costs
greater exposure
greater safety risk

Temporary/Permanent flat storage = greater stability

one time cost
all-weather protection
safer for employees

Key takeaways:

Temporary piles often become long-term solutions.
Covered storage lowers labor and spoilage risk.
Automation supports quality management with fewer touchpoints.

Planning for efficiency, not just volume

Adding storage works best when it’s part of a broader plan. Truck flow, access points, pits, and loadout all affect how well a site performs under pressure. Expanding capacity without addressing these factors can simply shift bottlenecks elsewhere.

A system-wide approach helps protect throughput and avoids rushed decisions when harvest hits.

Key takeaways:

Storage expansion should align with site layout and flow.
System-level planning reduces bottlenecks.
Early planning helps manage rising labor and energy costs.

Record yields are here to stay. The question is whether storage systems are ready for them.

The operations that stay ahead are the ones planning early—evaluating capacity, addressing constraints, and building flexibility into their systems. Closing the storage gap starts with smart, proactive decisions made before the next harvest arrives.

Get started on your storage solution today. Contact us.

Rural Grit Leads to Growth: Jason Owen Reflects on 25 Years of Accu-Steel | Accu-Steel Fabric Covered Buildings

Paige Klein — Thu, 11 Dec 2025 06:00:00 GMT

As we’re nearing 25 years in business, Accu-Steel’s founder and owner Jason Owen joined the SMPG Podcast to reflect on how our company began, how we’ve grown, and what continues to drive our mission today. From early fabrication projects on a family farm to becoming a trusted partner in agriculture, grain, fertilizer, livestock, and industrial applications, Jason’s story highlights the power of hard work and rural American ingenuity that still defines Accu-Steel a quarter-century later.

Below is a condensed Q&A from Jason’s conversation with podcast host Sam Paul, Editorial Director at GEAPS Media Group. Listen to the full interview on Grain Journal’s website.

Q: Jason, congratulations on 25 years. What first inspired you to start Accu-Steel?

Jason: Accu-Steel started through contract manufacturing. I was studying agricultural engineering at Iowa State University and working nights welding grain-handling equipment. An opportunity came up to build portable concrete plants, which brought me back to my family’s farm in Audubon County to start fabricating.

After several years, we transitioned into fabric-covered buildings. I saw opportunities to introduce engineering improvements and manufacturing practices that could strengthen the industry. Those early decisions helped shape Accu-Steel into the company it is today.

Q: What were some of the biggest challenges in those early years?

Jason: When I returned home, Audubon County had seen very little manufacturing growth for decades. Starting a facility there made a significant impact on the community and the workforce.

We were fortunate to connect with skilled agricultural workers who were looking for additional income. Their expertise and work ethic helped us establish a strong foundation during those early years.

Q: Were there risks or decisions that helped shape the direction of the company?

Jason: Definitely. Looking back, the turning points often came from understanding our limits and being willing to learn from mistakes. We made plenty of them, but we worked hard and pushed through.

I also didn’t let a lack of formal credentials stop me. I had the skills to work on the floor, and I had enough business sense to keep things moving forward. We trusted the process and figured things out as we went.

Q: Has your view of entrepreneurship changed over time?

Jason: Entrepreneurship requires a high tolerance for risk. You can teach business concepts, but you cannot easily teach someone to accept the uncertainty and responsibility that comes with starting a company.

Growing up on a farm taught me a lot about living with risk and making decisions even when conditions are uncertain. That mindset carried over into how I run the business today.

Q: Accu-Steel has stayed firmly rooted in rural Iowa. What makes running a business there unique?

Jason: Being in a rural community means staying connected to the people around you. We understand that some employees are involved in agriculture, so we try to be flexible when possible.

Although the workforce has changed over the years, rural Iowa still has incredibly talented people. Attracting front-end business talent is more challenging in a small county, so we expanded with a Des Moines office to support our team and customers more effectively.

Q: How do you approach attracting and retaining great employees?

Jason: Fair wages are important, but culture also matters. People want a place where they can grow, contribute, and maintain a healthy work-life balance.

One of the most rewarding parts of running the company is seeing employees improve their quality of life and achieve personal goals. Their success makes our work meaningful.

Q: What has guided Accu-Steel’s success over the years?

Jason: Our focus has always been on building high-quality components and delivering solutions that genuinely improve customer operations. We design buildings around what customers actually need rather than asking customers to adapt to us.

We also chose a product that is difficult to outsource internationally. It still surprises me that steel processed in Iowa ends up in places like Europe, Africa, and the Middle East, but it shows the value our team creates.

Q: What challenges are farmers and co-ops facing today?

Jason: Efficiency is more important than ever. Farmers are dealing with lower commodity prices, advancements in technology, consolidation, and shifts in interest rates.

Agriculture has always adapted, and it continues to do so. Even with economic pressure, American producers still manage to feed the world.

Q: What does the next chapter look like for Accu-Steel and for you personally?

Jason: I’m beginning to see key employees step into larger roles and add their own ideas and systems. Entrepreneurs often excel at pushing through challenges but are not always the best at building long-term processes.

Letting others take the lead in certain areas has helped the company grow and operate more efficiently.

Q: What advice would you give someone starting a rural business today?

Jason: If you feel called to do it and the business makes sense on paper, pursue it. I had strong mentors and learned a lot outside the classroom. Staying humble, observant, and willing to learn made all the difference.

Success is not only measured in revenue. It is also about building something sustainable that serves a community and creates opportunity.

Q: After all these years, what excites you most about your work?

Jason: I enjoy helping young families return to the farm. With tough margins in row crops, cattle buildings often create a profitable entry point for the next generation.

I also enjoy watching employees grow personally and professionally. Seeing people improve their lives through stable, rewarding work is incredibly fulfilling.

Listen to the full interview

To hear Jason’s full conversation with the SMPG Podcast, visit: https://www.grainjournal.com/article/1113909/podcast-test

How Indoor Riding Arenas Took Two Equestrians (And Their Horses) To The Next Level | Accu-Steel Fabric Covered Buildings

Paige Klein — Wed, 19 Nov 2025 06:00:00 GMT

For equestrians, consistency is key—not just for competitions, but for everyday training and enjoyment. Friends Tina and Nina know this firsthand. Both passionate about horses and riding, they found that Pennsylvania’s unpredictable weather and clay-heavy soil made consistent riding difficult.

Whether training for competition or simply riding for pleasure, regular saddle time is essential for maintaining a horse’s health and fitness. Even just a few months off could lead to setbacks in performance and conditioning. For Nina and Tina, the answer was clear: indoor riding arenas that make year-round riding possible.

A friendship that sparked a transformation

Tina was the first to take the leap, working with Accu-Steel dealer Log Cabin Fence to construct her arena about 10 years ago. With three personal horses and frequent rainy days making outdoor riding inconsistent, she knew an indoor arena was essential. “Even on sunny days, the footing outside could be tricky,” Tina explains. “Now, I can ride consistently, which has improved my horses’ fitness, performance, and attitude. More time in the saddle means my horses are better trained and more pleasant to ride. It’s made a huge difference for me as a rider, too.”

In addition to her arena, Tina also has a second Accu-Steel building used as a barn for her horses with storage for essentials like tack and feed. This combination allows her to manage her horses comfortably year-round while keeping everything centralized on her property.

Seeing Tina’s success inspired Nina to build her own arena. “Before, I could hardly ride at all during the winter,” she recalls. “Now I ride four to five times a week, and it’s helped me be more competitive—I’ve even moved up several levels in dressage. It’s definitely been a game-changer for both my riding and my horses.”

The freedom to ride anytime

For both Nina and Tina, their Accu-Steel buildings have become more than just structures—they’re the heart of their daily equestrian routines, allowing them to ride and train year-round without worrying about the weather.

Nina offers simple advice for anyone considering their own facility: “Absolutely get an indoor riding arena—and as wide as you can afford. I no longer have to pay to board my horses away from home during the winter and can ride whenever I want in my own backyard, regardless of weather. It’s been life changing!”

From a shared passion to a shared solution, Nina and Tina have seen for themselves how the right environment can elevate the equestrian experience.

Ready to ride year round? Contact Accu-Steel today to get started on your own custom riding arena or barn facility.

Built for the Future: Accu-Steel Helps City of Festus Store More and Spend Less | Accu-Steel Fabric Covered Buildings

Paige Klein — Mon, 13 Oct 2025 05:00:00 GMT

After years of relying on an aging three-sided hoop structure, the City of Festus knew its salt storage solution was no longer enough. The building lacked capacity, left salt exposed to the elements, and forced the city to replenish supplies mid-season—often at peak prices. Last winter’s heavy snowfall underscored the urgency: Festus needed a larger, sturdier, and longer-lasting facility to keep up with demand.

That’s when city officials moved forward on plans for a new building, turning to Construction Tent Rentals (CTR) for a solution. As a contractor rooted in the community, CTR offered both the expertise and the trust city leaders were looking for.

CTR president Thadd Holdinghausen said, “The city wanted a partner close to home and they were looking for a structure that would last for the next 50 years. Once they learned more about Accu-Steel and its engineering standards, they knew this was the right fit for them.”

Bigger, stronger, and built to last

The City of Festus set out to maximize capacity and durability with its new salt storage facility—and Accu-Steel delivered. The structure is nearly four times larger than the city’s previous building, providing ample space to stockpile salt well before winter storms.

“The old building was only three-sided, so it didn’t fully protect stored commodities,” explained Thadd. “The new Accu-Steel building is fully enclosed with a block foundation for maximum strength. We also applied tar inside and out for added longevity and protection.”

The facility features a 50-foot-wide high-peak design and the largest fabric door Accu-Steel manufactures, allowing full-size tractor trailers to unload salt directly inside. Despite its impressive scale, construction moved efficiently in May 2025—only taking about two weeks to complete.

Savings and flexibility under one roof

This investment is already proving its value. Due to the old facility’s smaller size, the City of Festus often had to buy salt mid-winter at premium prices to replenish limited supplies. The new building’s increased capacity means the city can purchase salt in bulk before winter, avoiding the higher costs that come during peak demand.

The city has also discovered unexpected uses for the building. “They love it,” Thadd said. “It’s so spacious they’ve even set up bags games to play inside on rainy days. Between seasons, they can also store trucks and other equipment—it’s truly a multi-purpose asset.”

Built to store with confidence

For municipalities considering a similar project, Thadd points to Accu-Steel’s quality and manufacturing standards. “Understanding how these buildings are made—and the strict standards they meet—shows the value of the product,” he said. “When you purchase an Accu-Steel building, you’re covering your assets with confidence.”

Whether it’s salt storage or other critical infrastructure needs, Accu-Steel fabric-covered buildings provide the strength, capacity, and longevity cities can rely on. Contact us today to learn more.

Rethinking Grain Storage ROI | Accu-Steel Fabric Covered Buildings

Paige Klein — Wed, 17 Sep 2025 05:00:00 GMT

Return on investment isn’t as cut and dry as it’s been in years past. For grain operations, ROI isn’t just about upfront cost per bushel—input prices, supply chain disruptions, and even insurance requirements have created a new reality for farmers, co-ops, and grain companies.

So, the real question becomes, “How can you take control of the variables within your reach?”

Tony Holder tackled this challenge during a recent webinar with Grain Journal, and the takeaway was clear: rethink the equation, and you can reduce risk while setting up your operation for long-term success.

The shifting ROI equation

Grain storage has always been about efficiency and protection, but the pressures around it are growing. Commodity markets are volatile. Labor and equipment costs are rising. Spoilage and shrinkage erode margins before grain ever leaves the building.

ROI is more than a math problem, it’s about predictability. The more you can control your costs, minimize losses, and streamline operations, the stronger your bottom line becomes—no matter the market cycle.

Flat storage puts you back in control

One of the strongest themes from the discussion was control. Flat storage offers a level of flexibility that vertical storage simply can’t match. By designing for your unique operation, you’re protecting more than grain, you’re protecting your investment.

Flat storage allows you to buy and store commodities on your own timeline, rather than paying premiums during peak demand. It also provides peace of mind when it comes to insurance. Where some storage types are increasingly difficult to cover, flat storage is fully insurable, reducing one more layer of risk.

Or, as Tony said during the webinar, it’s about taking back leverage: “When you own your storage, you own the timeline.” That shift alone can turn an unpredictable season into a manageable one.

Built for how you work

Every operation is different, and the design of your storage should reflect that. ROI isn’t only about dollars saved, it’s about efficiency gained.

Flat storage can be tailored with specific entry and exit points, room for conveyors or wheel loaders, and space to blend fertilizer or commodities on site. The clear-span space of an Accu-Steel building eliminates internal support beams, meaning you can maneuver equipment and monitor grain condition however you need without obstructions.

These aren’t cosmetic features. They’re practical efficiencies that reduce labor time, limit wear on equipment, and cut down on headaches. When your building is engineered around your workflow, every task becomes easier and every dollar invested works harder.

Long-term value that lasts

But wait! ROI doesn’t stop once a building is constructed. True return comes from durability and reliability over decades.

Accu-Steel’s hot-dipped galvanized steel frames resist corrosion, while Enduro-Loc™ fabric covers stand up to harsh weather and protect commodities year-round. With warranties that span 20 years and beyond, the payoff continues long after the initial investment.

Think of it this way: every additional year of performance is another year of stabilized costs. In an industry where volatility is constant, the ability to count on your infrastructure is a powerful advantage.

At the end of the day, ROI in grain storage is about more than cost per bushel. It’s about reclaiming control—of your investment, your timeline, and your peace of mind. Flat storage solutions, engineered with your needs in mind, give you the flexibility and protection to weather uncertainty and focus on growth.

Want to dive deeper? Watch the full webinar now with Tony Holder for more insights, or reach out directly with your questions about building a storage strategy that protects your bottom line.

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Rural Grit Leads to Growth: Jason Owen Reflects on 25 Years of Accu-Steel | Accu-Steel Fabric Covered Buildings

Q: Jason, congratulations on 25 years. What first inspired you to start Accu-Steel?

Q: What were some of the biggest challenges in those early years?

Q: Were there risks or decisions that helped shape the direction of the company?

Q: Has your view of entrepreneurship changed over time?

Q: Accu-Steel has stayed firmly rooted in rural Iowa. What makes running a business there unique?

Q: How do you approach attracting and retaining great employees?

Q: What has guided Accu-Steel’s success over the years?

Q: What challenges are farmers and co-ops facing today?

Q: What does the next chapter look like for Accu-Steel and for you personally?

Q: What advice would you give someone starting a rural business today?

Q: After all these years, what excites you most about your work?

Listen to the full interview

How Indoor Riding Arenas Took Two Equestrians (And Their Horses) To The Next Level | Accu-Steel Fabric Covered Buildings

A friendship that sparked a transformation

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The freedom to ride anytime

Built for the Future: Accu-Steel Helps City of Festus Store More and Spend Less | Accu-Steel Fabric Covered Buildings

Bigger, stronger, and built to last