Nevada Multi-species Processing Plant on Track

Plans to build a meat processing plant in western Nevada will meet a goal of breaking ground next spring and ultimately bring 1,000 jobs to the area, according to the investor behind the $100 million-plus facility.

Vincent P. Estell, CEO of Walker River Meat Processing, said the 300,000-sq.-ft. plant will process cattle, pigs, sheep and goats in a green environment that utilizes geothermal power systems, reclaims all wastewater and prevents cross-contamination by keeping the animals separated by at least 1,000 feet.

The facility in Wabuska, Nev., will consist of three buildings where operations will meet U.S. Department of Agriculture and European Union Food Regulations and Standards, opening the door for the processed meats to be sold worldwide. Running at capacity, the plant is expected to process more than 2,000 head of cattle, 2,500 hogs and 1,000 sheep and goats per day.

Estell said that supply contracts with cattle ranchers are just about sewn up and he is working with pork, sheep and goat producers on providing their animals by the time the facility officially opens in 2013.

Reprinted in part from meatingplace.com