Lack of bids on sale of Palmer slaughterhouse raises farmer's concerns

Although this article focuses more on farming in south central Alaska, some aspects may raise concerns of Delta's farmers.

[This is the first part of the Anchorage Daily News article.]

WASILLA -- Nobody had bid on the state-owned slaughterhouse in Palmer with only a few days remaining before the Friday deadline.

But state Agriculture Division Director Larry DeVilbiss said he's optimistic someone will try to buy the Mt. McKinley Meat and Sausage Co. plant. As of Monday, DeVilbiss had received no bids, but he said he has talked to three potential bidders, all based in Alaska. All are interested in continuing to operate the facility as a slaughterhouse, he said.

"I can tell you that we don't have anything in the safe," he said. "(But) I'm hopeful."

Farmers were less optimistic, noting past attempts have failed to attract much interest in the state-run plant.

"We're concerned, and rightfully so," said Earl Clabo, a Valley-based farm equipment salesman and member of the Alaska Farmers Union.

The sale has highlighted an ongoing riff between some farmers and state agriculture officials.

[more- Anchorage Daily News]