Request for Interest for a Planned Rural Montana Meat Processing Facility
We are looking for someone who is skilled in meat processing and business management and is interested in an opportunity to start and grow a small-scale meat processing facility in Winnett, Montana. The specific structure is flexible to provide opportunity for the right person (or people) and benefit all who are involved in this future rural community-based business venture.
Petroleum County is located in Central Montana with the only town of Winnett being its county seat. It is sparsely populated with about 500 residents, and has large numbers of cattle and wildlife, making it a producer of agriculture products and a destination for wildlife hunting.
There is documented interest (Click button at bottom of article for survey results) and demand from area ranchers and residents for a meat processing facility started in the area that would provide:
Processing of livestock for producers and residents to support the local food system by making local meat available to the area.
A processing outlet for local livestock feedlots.
Seasonal processing of regionally harvested wild game.
The local committee who has been working on this idea, offers the following:
A small acreage 2 miles from Winnett located on Highway 200 East, that includes about 35 acres, 1200 sq. ft. home, 30x60 pole barn, private well, and good access. The owner of this property has a willingness to work with someone with the described qualities to provide housing and build-out a small-scale meat processing facility onsite.
A proposed small feedlot facility across the road from this property, offering a steady supply of cattle for processing.
Survey documentation of local residents, which quantifies interest in use of a facility by producers bringing both cattle and wild game, and local buy-in for meat products.
A progressive, supportive community who would embrace a committed business.
Great school, daycare facility, high-speed internet service, and basic rural amenities in Winnett.
Possible grant opportunities for facility infrastructure.
What would be needed from an interested party:
Willingness to produce a business plan, knowledge of the meat processing business structure and permitting needs, good communication skills to work with agencies, producers, and customers.
Ability to provide “skin in the game” which could include capital, labor, equipment, and/or management, and a willingness to discuss any and all options.
A hardworking, committed family or sole operative who is self-motivated to own and operate the facility and do what it takes to be successful.
Commitment to rural community success, sustainability, and local values.
Any interested party who feels they would fit this position can contact Diane Ahlgren at skipndiane@midrivers.com or (406) 429-6851 for further discussion.