I'm pretty well into the process of setting one up here in Montana. Here a co-op is a legal entity, like a corporation or a limited partnership, so we have to do a feasibility study/biz plan -- just like starting a biz. When that's approved by the state attorney general, then we can sell shares and capitalize the co-op. The Northern Rocky Mountain Resource Conservation & Development Area, Inc. has been very helpful. They're a national organization and perhaps they have an office in your area. Email JT Smith at smithjt@nrmrcd.org. He'd know. Essentially, though, learn your state laws regarding co-ops and go from there. Check the Burlington Biodiesel Co-op website for guidance and ideas, too.

Best regards,
Kimball