NWMPA secures $650K grant to boost Oregon meat processing education

A significant boost for Oregon's meat processing industry was announced during the Senate Committee on Natural Resources and Wildfire meeting on May 1, 2025. The Northwest Meat Processors Association (NWMPA) revealed that a $650,000 grant has been secured to enhance education and training in meat processing across the state. This funding, which includes $58,000 allocated to the NWMPA over three years, will support a meat cutters apprenticeship program, a critical step in addressing the shortage of major slaughter facilities in Oregon.

The grant, a collaborative effort involving Oregon State University, the Niche Meat Processors Assistance Network, and Blue Mountain Community College, aims to expand meat science programs and improve training facilities. Blue Mountain Community College is set to receive $300,000 from this grant, allowing them to enhance their resources in Pendleton.

During the meeting, it was highlighted that Oregon currently has 36 members in the meat processing sector, with a notable absence of large slaughter facilities. The grant is expected to double the number of plants capable of processing beef for resale, a crucial development for local meat producers.

The NWMPA expressed pride in their partnership with Oregon's educational institutions and emphasized the importance of inspected facilities for the meat industry. As the state moves forward, the focus will be on meeting inspection requirements to ensure these facilities can operate effectively and contribute to the local economy.