By Annette Bertelsen T he philosophy of “one plus one equals three” can be seen far and wide in strategic partnerships that enable farmers, cooperatives and their partners to build more by working together. While there’s no magic formula, experts say good communication, trust and shared values are keys to successful long-term partnerships. “Dynamics are diff erent when cooperatives partner with other cooperatives, versus cooperatives working with non-cooperatives,” says Bruce Reynolds, economist, USDA Cooperative Programs. “Private fi rms have their own > Fessenden Cooperative partnered with CHS to build a grain terminal in Hamberg, N.D. Among the decision makers were, from left, Darrel Heins, a farmer and former Fessenden Cooperative board member; Mark Pederson, Fessenden Cooperative location manager; and Mark Hovland, Fessenden Cooperative general manager. Your CHS Connection 7