Mississippi Mills Releases Final Abattoir Feasibility Study

Earlier this year, the Municipality of Mississippi Mills embarked on an Abattoir Feasibility Study prompted by concerns from local farmers regarding the lack of meat processing facilities locally.

The Municipality contracted Mallot Creek Group to undertake the study in early 2024, which explored the viability of a multi-species, provincially inspected slaughter and processing facility in Mississippi Mills. It was made possible by funding through the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership Fund. Challenges accessing provincially licensed abattoirs and meat processing plants were identified as having a negative effect on farmers throughout the Municipality, which also created obstacles for food retailers and restaurants seeking locally sourced meat. Long travel times and wait times, as well as high costs were other barriers, while abattoir operators noted seasonal peaks, availability of staff and high-cost operating environments as issues.

The study included an analysis of the current environment, a survey of producers and an assessment of business feasibility. Findings revealed there is a viable opportunity for a meat processing facility in the Municipality, contingent on producer participation and funding. Mallot Creek Group has identified a three-phase action plan including the concept of a branded program that local producers or facility operators can now use to build a business case with a leadership steering committee.

With the completion of the Feasibility Study, the Municipality’s contract with Mallot Creek Group has ended. Any future phases would be driven directly by local producers. The study has been provided to the Lanark Federation of Agriculture and Lanark County Beef Farmers Association as representatives of local producers to determine next steps.

“Agriculture and food production are important drivers to our local economy and Council takes seriously the issues brought to us by local farmers,” said Mayor Christa Lowry. “Mississippi Mills Council remains open to supporting the farming community on this and other matters affecting their viability and success.”

Lanark-Frontenac-Kingston MPP John Jordan and Parliamentary Assistant to the Minister of Agriculture, Food and Agribusiness, has been a supportive partner in this project.

“Provincially licensed abattoirs are vital to a healthy regional agricultural system,” said MPP Jordan. “The proactive approach taken by the Municipality of Mississippi Mills to initiate this study has laid important groundwork to addressing these challenges. Increasing production and processing across Ontario is part of the Provincial Government’s Grow Ontario strategy.”

To view the final Abattoir Feasibility Study report, click here.