Townsend board OKS chicken processing plant

Shepherd’s Farm addresses smell and traffic concerns

townsend » Shepherd’s Farm is no stranger to poultry processing but as some prospects have dried up, the farm has decided it needs to expand in order to stay competitive.

On Oct. 29, Shepherd’s Farm came before the Board of Health seeking approval for a proposed poultry processing plant at 3 Wheeler Road. Despite concerns being raised over the environmental impact, smell, treatment of animals and traffic, the Board of Health unanimously approved the plan — with some added stipulations.

Included in the stipulations is should there be a specific nuisance complaint with odors or outside animals other than what the farm is harvesting, the Board of Health would be permitted to conduct an inspection. The board also wants to approve waste tanks for where the drains are located for the draining of scalding and clean water, as well as having the ability to inspect those.

The Board of Health also requested clarification on a waste hauler permit for byproducts coming out of the building and where they would be shipped, or put in the ground, or if they are going to be composted. The board also requested Shepherd’s Farm provide a specific composting location, which would include a vegetative buffer.

Additionally, the board stipulated Shepherd’s provide a basic manure management plan including composting management practices. Farm manager Andrew Shepherd did not raise objection to any of the board’s conditions.

Owner Gary Shepherd said the plant would have the capacity to process 20,000 birds a year. Included in the total capacity could be an estimated 500 chickens per week from April and October. Additionally, it could include 3,000 to 4,000 turkeys in a year.

However, Shepherd stated several times during the course of the public hearing his desire was to remain under 20,000.

“We do not expect nor desire to be anywhere as