Port of The Dalles explores food industry start-up facility

Wasco County has a strong concentration of agriculture and food production. Agriculture alone accounts for almost $94 million (2017) in market value of products sold, the largest component of the Wasco County economy, said a press release.

“The port has found that one of the most effective ways to enhance the local economy is to build on its existing strengths,” said Kathy Ursprung, project manager for the food building, in a press release.

“Rather than just selling our crops to facilities outside the local area for food production, if we can produce those foods here — for example by turning raw fruit into prepared ice cream ingredients or grapes into wine, as some local businesses do, then we are creating more local income and jobs.”

The port is interested in hearing from people who might like to make use of a commercial food production building in a variety of different ways, including:

•  Use of a shared kitchen
•  Leasing small-scale production spaces
•  Co-packing services
•  Other food-related business services

Survey responses are due by June 28. Results will be used as part of a larger study to determine whether to move forward with facility construction.

For more information, contact Ursprung at 541-298-4148 or kathy.ursprung@portofthedalles.com.