Viking-Cives Plows Through Ice and Snow Removal Problems

Profile Staff - July 2003

The Viking-Cives Group U.S. operations are located in Harrisville, NY, between Watertown and Governeur. According to the company, it is the largest manufacturer of snow and ice control and removal equipment in North America, selling its products nationwide through a network of 50 distributors

The company was established in 1961 as The Governeur Iron Works. It was founded in the North Country of New York because there was a large demand for snow removal equipment and manufacturers at that time were unable to meet the demand. In later years, the company moved to Harrisville, NY, and was re-named Harrisville Manufacturing.

In 1979 when Harrisville Manufacturing was producing Viking snowplows, Cives Corporation purchased the company and renamed it Viking-Cives.

Now, Viking-Cives manufacturers more than 200 models of displacement plows ranging from 20 to 30 ft. It also manufacturers the Pro-Line Series of combination spreaders and the Viking side-dump combination spreaders.

The company takes pride in its products and takes the extra step to ensure quality. For example, during the manufacturing process the units are shot blasted to create a stronger bond for paint, which produces a long-lasting finish.

The Viking-Cives’ New York manufacturing facility employs approximately 100 people. The company also has a second manufacturing facility located in Mount Forrest, Ontario, Canada.

Last year Viking-Cives celebrated its anniversary with a large gathering for its customers and suppliers at the Harrisville, NY, plant location. It provided the company the opportunity to show its appreciation as well as give the visitors a tour of the facilities and a preview of the latest equipment.