Dairy Farmers of America adds new Michigan site

Dairy Farmers of America plans to build a new milk-processing plant in the US state of Michigan, investing $40 million (€29.5 million) and creating 25 full-time jobs. The project is one of seven across the state receiving incentives and grants approved by the Michigan Strategic Fund, according to a Michigan Economic Development news release.

The 33,000-square-foot plant, to be completed by autumn 2014, is expected to process up to three million pounds of fresh milk each day, supplied by Dairy Farmers of America member farms in the area, notes the DFA. Dairy Farmers of America, a US-based milk-marketing cooperative, was awarded a performance-based grant from the US state, and the Michigan Economic Development Corporation is also contributing, according to the DFA. A $1 million (€738,000) Community Development Block Grant programme infrastructure grant was also given for wastewater treatment facility improvements needed for the plant. Cass City, where the plant will be located,  is providing revenue bonding necessary for wastewater treatment plant and public infrastructure improvements.

Initially, the plant is to produce condensed whole milk, skim milk and cream. Phased construction plan will allow for growth and the potential to manufacture value-added demand products.