Morrell Plant Pollution Controls to be Evaluated

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) — State officials are optimistic an inspection later this month will show that upgrades and conservation measures are helping fix water quality issues at the John Morrell meat processing plant in Sioux Falls.

The Argus Leader reports (http://argusne.ws/168lpqc ) the plant has spent $10 million on upgrades after being cited for numerous wastewater violations in recent years.

Kelli Buscher with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources says the improvements are expected to result in more consistent treatment and an end to violations.

The Sioux Falls plant processes nearly 5 million pigs each year. John Meyer, director of environmental affairs and sustainability for the John Morrell Food Group, says the plant has been around more than 100 years and continues to make what he calls "dramatic strides."

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