Construction is underway on Agri Beef’s True West Beef processing plant in Jerome, ID, with an expected operational date by the end of 2022, according to Twin Falls-based television station KMVT.
In August 2020, Boise-based Agri Beef announced it would open a cattle processing facility in Jerome capable of processing 500 head per day.
“Since that time, we are now at the process where we are actually pouring footings and foundations. We expect to be putting up some of the erection of the walls starting next month,” Jay Theiler, the executive vice president of True West Beef, told KMVT.
Theiler stated the exterior should be complete by the end of the year and the building will be completely operational by the end of 2022.
At the plant’s announcement, Agri Beef officials noted the location was close to the interstate and close to where cattle are located. There are currently some small processors in the area, including Ida-Beef in Burley, which opened in 2018 and specializes in dairy cull cows. Producers will have an equity stake in True West Beef.
“We hope it becomes more of a model for livestock production in the United States where the producers are also a part of the packing operation; it’s unique and something we’re really proud of,” said Theiler.
Agri Beef brands include Snake River Farms, Double R Ranch, St. Helens Farms and Rancho El Oro brands. Snake River Farms’ Wagyu cattle are raised in eastern Idaho, while Double R Ranch beef is raised in Washington. The Jerome processing plant will mainly produce Snake River Farms and Double R Ranch products.
Theiler stated it is difficult to keep up with demand, “so having this new facility come online, couldn’t happen fast enough.” KMVT said the plant is expected to employ more than 370 people. — Charles Wallace, WLJ editor
