American Fertilizer Proposes $4.7 Billion Cheyenne Plant
The proposed facility at Swan Ranch would produce nitrogen fertilizer to serve markets across the Western United States.
Updated on Oct. 29, 2026 in Agriculture
Live Poll
Should the U.S. prioritize domestic fertilizer production to strengthen national food security?
American Fertilizer has proposed a new $4.7 billion nitrogen fertilizer plant located on a 600-acre site at Cheyenne's Swan Ranch Industrial Park. The facility aims to serve the 12 most-western U.S. states while reducing the country's reliance on international fertilizer imports.
Why it matters
Currently, 92% of domestic fertilizer production is located east of the Rocky Mountains, leaving the West vulnerable to supply chain issues. This project seeks to bridge that gap by processing local natural gas into essential agricultural products.
The proposed plant is projected to create 1,600 construction jobs and 300 full-time positions once operational. It is estimated the facility could replace approximately one-third of current U.S. nitrogen fertilizer imports.
The players
American Fertilizer
The company behind the proposed nitrogen fertilizer manufacturing facility currently headquartered in Windsor, Colorado.
Union Pacific
A major North American railroad company intended to serve as a primary distribution partner for the plant's products.
Burlington Northern
A large freight railroad network that the facility plans to utilize for transporting agricultural inputs across the Western U.S.
The details
The facility plans to produce ammonia, urea, UAN32, and diesel exhaust fluid using natural gas as a primary feedstock. Once completed, the plant will utilize the Union Pacific and Burlington Northern railroads to distribute these products throughout the region.
Timeline
In 2025, 66% of U.S. urea imports originated from five specific foreign nations.
The facility is projected to reach full production capacity by 2031.
Market Landscape
This project represents a significant shift in domestic supply chains by attempting to localize production closer to regional agricultural hubs. It directly challenges the current reliance on overseas urea imports, which currently account for 36% of the total U.S. supply.
Local governments in the area stand to benefit from an estimated $17 million in annual economic impact generated by the facility. Residents may also see a boost to the local economy, as the plant is projected to contribute 1% to Wyoming's total Gross Domestic Product.
The takeaway
This proposal highlights the ongoing industry effort to move nitrogen fertilizer production closer to the end user in the Western United States. Regional agricultural operations should monitor the development timeline for potential improvements in fertilizer supply stability.
Further reading
For additional context on the region's agricultural development, visit the Cheyenne Agriculture section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Wyoming Tribune Eagle.
Live Poll
Should the U.S. prioritize domestic fertilizer production to strengthen national food security?
