The federal government is helping an Atwood rendering facility become more competitive by contributing to the reduction of specified risk material (SRM) handling costs.
Perth-Wellington MP Gary Schellenberger made the announcement on March 15 on behalf of Agriculture Minister Gerry Ritz. Federal officials say the assistance is being provided through Canada’s Economic Action Plan.
“Our government remains focused on creating jobs and economic growth, and through the economic action plan we are helping the livestock sector stay competitive in national and international markets,” said Schellenberger.
“This investment in Atwood Resources will increase the company’s intake capacity, while offering cost-effective SRM disposal facilities to meat processors in southwestern Ontario, ultimately helping to lower costs for producers.”
Atwood Resources is receiving a federal investment of over $6 million under the Slaughter Waste Innovation Program (SWIP) to help manage SRM. The project involves the purchase and installation of a gasification system that is expected to generate both savings and new revenue for the company by reducing the cost associated with the handling and destruction of SRM. It is also expected to result in savings from lower natural gas consumption by co-generating energy to run the plant.
Dave Smith, president of Atwood Resources said, “The installation of the gasification facility has been a major undertaking for us here at ARI, and we believe it will be a major benefit for the livestock industry in Canada. When the facility is in full operation, we will have the ability both to safely dispose of SRMs for
“Ontario farmers and processors without further transport and handling beyond our plant. The way the integrated facility is designed to work, we will also be able to maintain the low-cost service we currently provide to our customers.”
The SWIP Program invests up to $40 million to support the study, development and adoption of innovative technologies or processes that help reduce processing costs or generate profits through the use or elimination of SRM.
“It serves as a catalyst for increased investments in new technologies and processes in Canada’s beef value chain,” states a News release from Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada.
