Commemorating Decades of Quality Potato Packing in the Red River Valley

NoKota Packers, a longstanding family-owned potato packing business in Buxton, North Dakota, is set to welcome community members, partners, and local leaders to a ribbon-cutting ceremony and open house on Thursday, March 27 at 4 p.m.

This milestone event, taking place at the company’s headquarters at 16218 13th St. N.E., aims to celebrate 45 years of premium potato packing and unveil recent automation upgrades that position the facility for future growth.

The gathering is open to all and promises tours of the plant, giveaways, and a sampling of food products, offering visitors an up-close look at how NoKota Packers has remained a key player in the Red River Valley since its inception.

Established in 1979 by founders Malcolm Tweten and his brother-in-law Maurice Gjelsness, along with their sons Steve Tweten and Ron Gjelsness, NoKota Packers has grown from a humble potato warehouse and wash plant into a reputable business recognized for its dedication to quality.

In February of 1980, the company began shipping potatoes, and, over the decades, it has expanded while preserving the family ethos that guided the original venture.

Community involvement has always been a central part of NoKota’s philosophy, and its long-standing presence in the region has solidified its reputation as a reliable employer and partner to local growers.

The collaborative efforts of statewide organizations, county development groups, and NoKota’s leadership have underpinned the company’s consistent expansion and service to the agricultural sector.

The upcoming open house is organized in conjunction with the North Dakota Department of Agriculture and the Traill County Economic Development Commission.

“We’re excited to commemorate NoKota’s 45 years of history and to celebrate its future opportunities. Our company has a storied and solid reputation, and our recent upgrades put NoKota Packers in a stronger position than ever regarding future growth.”

Carissa Olsen, NoKota’s President and Chief Executive Officer

By showcasing these enhancements, the company intends to demonstrate how its new automated processes will help meet the rising demand for Red River Valley potatoes, which remain an integral part of the region’s agricultural output.

“This project is a fantastic example of the cooperation between the state, county, and a longtime mainstay in Traill County’s economic landscape. It’s a shining example of how all these programs can work together to help one of the companies that is a jewel in the tiara of Traill County.”

Jim Murphy, Executive Director of the Traill County

The automation improvements reflect NoKota’s commitment to staying competitive in the ever-evolving agricultural market, underscoring the synergy between technological innovation and time-tested expertise in potato packing.

NoKota Packers has navigated multiple ownership changes and seen employees retire over the years, yet its dedication to premium products and efficient service remains unchanged.

Family roots still run deep, and the unwavering commitment to providing high-quality red potatoes has helped the company weather industry shifts and maintain strong relationships with customers.

“We remain proud of our company’s decision to promote Red River Valley red potatoes, and we are excited about continuing our involvement in such a dynamic industry,” added Olsen.

From careful sourcing to meticulous packing and shipping, NoKota’s operations revolve around ensuring that consumers receive the best possible products from the fertile soil of the Red River Valley.

In addition to celebrating more than four decades of business, the ribbon-cutting event serves as a platform for the community to learn about the advantages of local agriculture and how NoKota’s new automation aligns with broader industry trends.

Attendees will hear remarks from company leaders, local officials, and individuals instrumental in advancing the regional agriculture sector.

At 4 p.m., the formal ribbon-cutting will kick off the festivities, followed by guided tours that showcase the plant’s modernized workflow.

Food samples and giveaways will also be available, reflecting NoKota’s commitment to both hospitality and transparency in its processes.

The schedule offers a glimpse into how a tightly knit family enterprise can leverage cutting-edge systems to enhance productivity, all while preserving the personal touch that has defined NoKota Packers for generations.

Community members, partners, and anyone interested in local agribusiness are encouraged to join NoKota Packers in this moment of celebration.

By illustrating the company’s evolution from its roots in 1979 to the state-of-the-art facility it is today, the open house and ribbon-cutting highlight the enduring importance of family-owned ventures in fueling economic growth and supporting local communities.