Henry Barlow, owner of Utah Beef Producers, told local news outlet KSLTV the pandemic caused him to take action to ensure no beef shortages.
“Just a couple of years ago, ranchers couldn’t get in,” Barlow said. “People couldn’t buy good beef. Not only is it scary for the consumer, but can you imagine being a rancher and having 100 heads that you can’t get harvested somewhere? They are right fed out, and you have got to feed them another five or six months.”
Barlow continued the plant will use modern technology, including the construction of a wastewater treatment facility projected to save an estimated 8 million gallons of water annually. Additionally, Utah Beef Producers will produce biochar at the facility to mitigate methane gas in animals when utilized as a feed supplement.
Barlow is collaborating with Snow College and Utah State University Extension to establish educational opportunities for students interested in pursuing careers in this field.
Upon opening, the plant is anticipated to generate 100 jobs and process approximately 150 cattle daily.
