A USDA-certified processing facility proposed for Cortez, CO, received approval on Feb. 10 from the Montezuma County Planning Commission.
According to company agent Chad Foutz, Rocky Mountain Meats plans to open a facility on the grounds formerly operated by a trucking company with the capacity to process 50 animals per week. Foutz said the company is “in desperate need” of a larger USDA processing facility to keep up with demand for its beef products, as it currently ships animals to three separate processing plants.
In addition to processing their animals, Foutz told The Journal that slaughter will be available for local ranchers who want to process meat at a USDA facility.
Water availability is an issue, as the property has a tap for 2,500-3,500 gallons per month, and the water district states they cannot supply more than the current allotment due to the water supply. Foutz said he plans to meet with the water district board.
The proposal now goes to the Board of County Commissioners for a review, public hearing and final decision.
