MADISON, WIS. — The Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) announced the recipients of eight grants through the 2023 Meat Processor Infrastructure Grant Program. A total of $200,000 was available in grants to improve the viability of the state’s livestock industry.

DATCP received 70 applications from meat processors requesting a total of more than $2.8 million in grants.

Each project was eligible for a maximum of $50,000 in grants. DATCP selected recipients based on a competitive review process. The following processors and their projects were selected:

•    Salchert Meats, St. Cloud – Provide infrastructure for long-term sustainability project.

•    JM Watkins LLC, Plum City – Complete expansion and new storefront construction.

•    Wisconsin River Meats, Mauston – Invest in expanded refrigeration and rail hanging system.

•    University of Wisconsin-River Falls, River Falls – Fund renovation of livestock holding pens and handling facilities.

•    NF Packing, Inc., Elkhorn – Build a USDA-licensed facility to address critical gaps in meat supply chain.

•    The Durand Smokehouse, Durand – Invest in processing and automation expansion.

•    Sailer's Food Market & Meat Processing, Elmwood – Complete expansion to improve efficiency and competitiveness.

•    D-D Meat Processing, Sheboygan Falls – Invest in refrigeration and industrial tank expansion.

Funding for the projects are available through the 2021-23 biennial state budget. All grant recipients are required to provide a match of 100% of the grant amount.

"Wisconsin's meat processors are a key component of a resilient supply chain, and I was proud to support them in their work by creating this grant program in 2021," said Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers. “Even still, need continues to outpace available funding, which is why investing in and supporting our local meat processors continues to be a top priority for me and our budget includes an additional $1.6 million to continue this successful program."