The North Dakota Grain Dealers Association Benefit Plan and Trust began operations on January 1, 1994. It is an attempt by Association members to have more control over health premium costs and healthcare plans. The Association is the sponsoring organization, but the Trust is a separate nonprofit entity operating under direction of its Plan Management Committee. Currently serving on that PMC are:

Clyde Krebs, Glen Ullin, Chairman
Keith Brandt, Enderlin
Rick Burgum, Arthur
Scott Ostlie, Northwood
Cameron Erickson, Russell
Ron Knaust, Lidgerwood
Steve Strege, Fargo, Secretary.

The Trust complies with U.S. Department of Labor requirements and those of the Employment Retirement Income Securities Act (ERISA). It has a full audit each year by a CPA firm. The Trust contracts for administrative services with Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Dakota. BCBSND is not only an insurance company, but it also provides administrative services to scores of self-funded trusts.

The Trust offers health, dental, prescription drugs, vision and life coverages. Eligibility for enrollment is limited to member grain elevators in North Dakota and counties contiguous to North Dakota, plus other Allied members within North Dakota. For more details and enrollment information contact Steve Strege or Sue Benson at the Grain Dealers office at 701-235-4184.