Country View Family Farms is taking a significant step forward with the construction of a cutting-edge $47 million hog feed mill in central Pennsylvania. The mill, situated on a 100-acre parcel in White Deer Township, is set to revolutionize feed production for at least 120 Pennsylvania farms contracted with Country View.
The project, slated for completion by October 2024, aims to meet the needs of 60% of Country View’s contracted hog producers, supporting over 120 farms within a 50-mile radius. The facility’s strategic location in Union County ensures proximity to most of its clientele.
In addition to its substantial feed production capacity of 8,000 tons per week, the mill will provide storage for 600,000 bushels of corn and soybean. The structure, featuring a 176-foot-tall mill tower, four 150-foot-tall grain silos, and a pelleting annex, will be a prominent landmark visible from Interstate 80.
Aaron Ott, president of Country View Family Farms, highlighted the local focus of the project. The mill will purchase grain from nearby farms, fostering collaboration with the local farming community. Ott emphasized that the mill’s operations, running 24 hours a day, will create job opportunities for 50 individuals, including mill operators and truck drivers.
The decision to construct the mill with concrete underscores its durability and longevity, with a projected lifespan exceeding 50 years. Ott emphasized the efficiency gains and cost benefits, noting that the dedicated focus on hog feed production eliminates the need for changeovers between different species, streamlining the process from farrow to finish.
The new mill is poised to bring consistency to feed production, offering a dedicated source for antibiotic-free feed. By centralizing their feed production, Country View Family Farms aims to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and provide a reliable supply for their contract growers.
This significant investment marks a milestone for Country View Family Farms, positioning them for continued growth and success in the competitive hog procurement and production industry.
