Dundy County commissioners approve 100,000-head feedlot

BENKELMAN, Neb. — Despite concerns over water, waste and smell, the Dundy County Board of Commissioners unanimously voted Monday to allow a Canadian company to build a 100,000-head feedlot, provided it follows the board’s conditions.

Blackshirt Feeders officials said the feedlot will create 85 jobs and purchase 10 million bushels of corn locally each year.

An official said a concrete floor will prevent groundwater contamination as well as problems with flies and dust.

The company plans to begin construction within six months, with commissioners, state agencies and the local Natural Resources District providing oversight to make sure Blackshirt Feeders follows the conditional use permit.