Future of a Pork Giant in Sioux Falls
A big change is coming to downtown Sioux Falls. The city’s leaders and the head of Smithfield Foods announced that the company will leave its historic plant near Falls Park for a new, larger site in an industrial area up north. The current facility, bought by Smithfield in 1995 and built in 1909, is the world’s second‑largest meat plant and employs about 3,200 people.
The New Plant
- Location: 200 acres, roughly three miles from the Big Sioux River.
- Cost: ~$1.3 billion.
- Impact on River: The distance should reduce the plant’s effect on water quality.
Smithfield has already invested $45 million in a wastewater treatment plant at the old site and plans to use tax‑increment financing for a new system on the campus.
Farm Connections
Smithfield’s operations link to many farmers in South Dakota, Minnesota, and Iowa. The plant processes around 20,000 hogs per day, mostly from local independent farms. The new facility will be the most modern pork plant in the U.S., supporting farmers who grow corn and soybeans for feed.
Urban Redevelopment
The old 120‑acre site will transform into a redevelopment area, potentially doubling downtown space thanks to a $50 million donation from billionaire Denny Sanford. Nearby towns such as Crooks will also feel the change, as the new plant sits on their borders.
Environmental Considerations
- Past Issues: Smithfield faced air and water pollution criticism, with fines for wastewater violations.
- Recent Improvements: Nitrate discharge reduced by 47 %.
- New Measures: Air‑scrubbing technology and a farther location should lower odor and pollution.
- Expert Opinion: The move may only slightly improve river quality because upstream farms still contribute most runoff.
Economic Impact
- 2024 Contributions: $4.4 million in taxes and ~$200 million in wages.
- Potential Loss: If Smithfield moved out of state, Sioux Falls could have lost billions, similar to the loss when a large beef plant closed in Nebraska.
Conclusion
The shift reflects both growth and responsibility. The new facility promises more jobs, better environmental controls, and a chance to reimagine downtown space while keeping the pork industry alive in South Dakota.
