A turkey processing plant in Storm Lake is back in business after a fire idled the facility for eight months.
The former Hillshire Brands turkey plant was severely damaged in March by an accidental fire. There were no injuries in the fire, but damage to the plant was extensive and portions required major renovations before it could safely operate. The plant became part of Tyson Foods in late August. Tyson Foods Plant Manager Ray Team says the importance of the facility to the local economy extends far beyond the plant’s 700 employees.
After the fire, management announced all Storm Lake employees would continue to be paid and receive medical benefits as the plant was being rebuilt.
Many employees were involved in the cleanup and rebuilding efforts. Currently, the turkey plant’s white meat turkey processing area is up and running. The dark meat operations are expected to resume in January.
