USDA Backs Dimmitt Beef Plant with Loan Guarantee

The planned facility is expected to process roughly 400 cattle daily and bring new jobs to the region.

DIMMITT, Texas (RFD-TV) — USDA is backing a $24.6 million commercial loan for a new locally owned beef processing facility in Dimmitt expected to process about 400 cattle daily and create 220 jobs.

The project was organized by 36 Texas Panhandle cattle investors seeking an alternative to major national processors. USDA says the new jobs are expected to pay an average of about $30 per hour.

Public company information indicates the project is West Texas Beef Producers, LLC, a rancher-owned Dimmitt processor currently in pre-construction. USDA has not formally identified the borrower or operating company.

Earlier project materials described West Texas Beef Producers beginning near 210 head daily and expanding to roughly 410 by its third year. The company says its ownership includes ranchers, feeders and other Panhandle agricultural operators.

USDA has not announced a construction schedule or opening date. The Business and Industry Guaranteed Loan Program supports rural businesses, employment and economic development.

Farm-Level Takeaway: The Dimmitt project could give Panhandle cattle producers another regional processing option while keeping more cattle value within the local economy.
Tony St. James, RFD-TV Markets Specialist

Tony St. James joined the RFD-TV talent team in August 2024, bringing a wealth of experience and a fresh perspective to RFD-TV and Rural Radio Channel 147 Sirius XM. In addition to his role as Market Specialist (collaborating with Scott “The Cow Guy” Shellady to provide radio and TV audiences with the latest updates on ag commodity markets), he hosts “Rural America Live” and serves as talent for trade shows.

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