Impact of shuttle rates on local grain flows.

Abstract

Investment in shuttle elevators and the ability of these facilities to utilize the more competitive rates in attracting grain have the potential to influence future local grain flow patterns. This analysis provides an estimate of how shuttle train rates will impact grain flows in North Dakota's grain gathering network. In comparative terms, 2% of the elevators may originate up to 32% of the average annual flows of the grain produced in the state grains. Increased concentration of bushels has implications for local roads, elevators, short-line railroads, bridge infrastructure and local communities.