A proposed beef processing plant could put Prince George on the list of federally-inspected centres, but first producers need to provide a plan.
The provincial and federal governments are ponying up funds to look into a local site as a processing and export centre.
The BC Cattlemen's Association (BCCA) will put together a business plan with the $144,000 of government funding and $16,000 of its own. It will need to identify a supply-chain, investment partners, and develop business models for the ownership and operation of the plant.
It could bring B.C. into a market - both provincially and internationally - that most often uses federally-licensed Alberta plants or the United States.
The Friday morning announcement at Bar K Ranch near Prince George brought out both local MLAs, representatives from the cattle industry, members of Prince George city council and MPs Bob Zimmer and Todd Doherty.
Prince George-Mackenzie MLA Mike Morris said it will be a great opportunity for local workers if the study proves positive.
"B.C. ranchers produce high-quality, tasty and trusted beef while being exceptional stewards of the land, and this plant offers them the potential of participating in a quarter of a billion dollars more in annual sales," said Morris in a statement.
The proponents boast the plant could mean an additional $250 million in annual beef and byproduct sales, an increase in value-added exports of up to $180 million and up to 180 new full-time jobs at the plant, with a possible 620 extra spinoff jobs.
The funding supports BCCA research that showed a plant would generate "significant economic benefits," the release said.
Its general manager said the province has a vibrant cattle industry that is ready to grow.
"The lack of a federally inspected packing plant restricts us from taking advantage of many aspects of the value chain," said Kevin Boon in a statement. "The investment of these dollars now is prudent for industry to make informed decisions as to whether this is a viable progression for the beef industry in B.C."
