Minneapolis, Minn (KWAD) – Minnesota Senators Amy Klobuchar and Tina Smith, both members of the Senate Agriculture Committee, have announced a major grant aimed at expanding a meat processing facility in Perham. The $530,000 grant will go to Lakes Community Cooperative, a facility providing multi-species livestock processing services to its member-owners.

In a press release, Sen. Klobuchar highlighted the importance of Minnesota’s role in the national food supply.

“Minnesota’s meat and poultry products help feed the nation and the world,” Klobuchar said. “This new funding will allow Lakes Community Cooperative to expand their operations and bring their high-quality meats to more markets.”

The funding comes at a critical time, as a White House fact sheet revealed that large meatpacking companies dominate much of the industry—controlling 85% of the beef market, 54% of poultry, and 70% of pork. The expansion of smaller, locally owned processing facilities like Lakes Community Cooperative is seen as a way to increase competition and potentially lower consumer costs in an industry often criticized for consolidation.

Sen. Smith underscored the economic benefits of expanding smaller meat processors. “A strong meat processing industry is crucial for a stable economy in Minnesota, especially for our farmers,” Smith said. “Doubling the capacity of coops like Lakes Community Cooperative gives producers more options for processing their livestock, ensuring farmers get fair value while helping keep prices in check for consumers.”

In previous efforts, Klobuchar and Smith also secured mobile meat processing equipment for students in career pathways programs at Central Lakes College and Ridgewater College, further supporting the state’s meat industry.