Agricultural Innovations, LLC Receives Prestigious Ag Innovator of the Year Award from AURI

Agricultural Innovations, LLC Earns Ag Innovator of the Year title from AURI

The Agricultural Utilization Research Institute (AURI) is delighted to announce Agricultural Innovations, LLC as the recipient of the prestigious Ag Innovator of the Year award for 2023.

Brothers Adam and Michael Asmus founded Agricultural Innovations, LLC in Winthrop, Minnesota, which uses chicken manure to create premium organic fertilizers under the High Island Organics brand. These fertilizers are marketed for their superior quality, virtually odorless composition, and pathogen-free nature.

The partnership between AURI and Agricultural Innovations, LLC commenced in 2017 when the Asmus brothers sought cost-effective solutions to convert surplus chicken litter into retail fertilizer products. AURI's coproducts team provided invaluable guidance, assisting the company in product formulation and conducting thorough testing and analysis. Pelletizing the litter emerged as a groundbreaking approach, enhancing its spreadability, storage convenience, and cost-effective shipping.

High Island Organics has grown significantly due to a collaboration with Agricultural Innovationswhich now distributes its products to community-supported agriculture farms, vegetable gardeners, and row crop farms. The product line includes all-purpose fertilizer, garden vegetable blend, lawn blend, and biochar soil amendment.

Adam Asmus expressed gratitude for the support and partnership of the AURI team, which helped them to reach consumers with their valuable product. They are grateful for their contribution to their success.

The Ag Innovator of the Year award, bestowed by the AURI Board of Directors, honors Minnesota-based companies or entrepreneurs who demonstrate exceptional achievements in product innovation, uniqueness, and commercialization potential. Since its inception in 2002, the award has become the highest recognition offered by AURI, highlighting remarkable accomplishments within its client portfolio.

Shannon Schlecht, Executive Director of AURI, congratulated Agricultural Innovationson being named Ag Innovator of the Year for their visionary outlook and innovative approach to value-added agriculture. Adam and Michael serve as excellent examples of businesses leveraging new market opportunities in an ever-evolving market.

Photo Credit: Agricultural Innovations, LLC