Ara Partners Acquires Majority Stake in Pacific Ag, Expands Strategy

Ara Partners Secures Majority Stake in Pacific Ag, Expanding Waste-to-Value Portfolio

Ara Partners has made a strategic acquisition, obtaining a majority interest in Pacific Ag, a leader in crop residue collection across North America. This deal, which was announced on October 14, aligns seamlessly with Ara's waste-to-value investment strategy, although financial specifics remain undisclosed.

Pacific Ag specializes in gathering and processing agricultural by-products like corn stover and wheat straw, which are typically left on fields post-harvest. These materials are transformed into valuable feedstock for industries such as dairies, animal protein markets, and mushroom farming, presenting a cost-effective solution for farmers.

Cultivating Value from Crop Residue

The agriculture sector in the United States generates vast amounts of crop residue annually. Pacific Ag offers an innovative approach by converting these by-products, which are often seen as waste, into a new revenue stream for farmers. The company’s operations bypass the need for additional farm equipment and labor, providing economic relief and environmental benefits.

A National Network of Harvesting and Logistics

With a comprehensive infrastructure that spans over 30 states, Pacific Ag boasts an extensive harvesting and logistics network. Their operational model ensures efficient residue collection and delivery, while maintaining soil health. This robust network supports longstanding partnerships with a diverse customer base.

Insights from Key Stakeholders

Bill Levy, founder and CEO of Pacific Ag, highlights the company's core ethos: “Pacific Ag takes what used to be a cost in the field and turns it into income for the farmer. We handle the harvesting, storage, and delivery, removing the farmer’s need to buy additional equipment or add labor, and put real money back in their pocket.” More details about Levy can be found here.

From Ara's perspective, George Yong, Partner and Co-Head of Ara Infrastructure, describes their investment strategy: “Our investment is a clear expression of our waste-to-value focus, turning residue into a productive resource.” Yong's professional details are available here.

About Ara Partners

Founded in 2017, Ara Partners focuses on investing in middle-market companies through its three strategies: Private Equity, Infrastructure, and Energy. The firm supports technologies that advance decarbonization and nurtures infrastructure for reducing emissions. As of June 30, 2026, Ara Partners reported $10.6 billion in assets under management.

Pacific Ag's Nationwide Impact

Established in 1998 in the Pacific Northwest's Columbia River Basin, Pacific Ag has expanded its reach to serve a wide network of agricultural stakeholders across the United States, maintaining close ties to the rural communities it operates within.

For further insights into industry trends, refer to iGrow’s analysis on agtech consolidation and M&A in 2026. Additional resources are available on the iGrow agtech investors page and the USA agtech companies directory.