U.S. Department of Agriculture Reopens California Slaughterhouse

Aug 27, 2012

Slaughterhouse Reopens It’s Doors after Questionable Undercover Video

The U.S. Department of Agriculture announced today that the California slaughterhouse that was shut down last week due to animal cruelty and food safety allegations can now reopen its doors.

The slaughterhouse under question is ‘Central Valley Meat’s’. The Handford, California, plant was ordered to shut down their operations after the release of video footage captured by an undercover Compassion Over Killing animal activist, claiming animal cruelty was taking place inside the slaughterhouse.

On Thursday, three California Republican Congressmen - Devin Nunes, Kevin McCarthy and Jeff Denham made a request to the USDA to reopen the slaughterhouse, noting that the region’s high unemployment rate would be exacerbated with the prolonged closer of the slaughterhouse. The unemployment rates in the region have been reported as high as 20%. The plant employs over 450 people.

Central Valley Meat’s met USDA’s approval to reopen after the submission of a corrective action plan outlining how the company planned to comply with inspection regulations.

Video: Winter Service Inspections for John Deere Equipment - The FarmCast Ep64

The FarmCast, host Troy Randall speaks with Doug Luedke, Vice President of Service, and Davin Peterson, Executive Vice President of Aftermarket at 21st Century Equipment, to discuss the importance of proactive service and how it helps farmers reduce downtime during their busiest seasons. The conversation focuses on the Winter Service Inspection Program, a comprehensive approach designed to keep equipment running at peak performance and limit costly in-season breakdowns through preventative maintenance and expert technician support.

Doug and Devin explain how 21st Century Equipment’s service teams have evolved to meet the needs of today’s connected machines. With more technology and data integrated into modern equipment, technicians now play a vital role in both mechanical repairs and precision ag support. Through advanced diagnostics, machine monitoring, and John Deere’s Expert Alerts, they can identify and address potential issues before they become major problems—saving customers valuable time, money, and frustration.

Throughout the discussion, the team shares real-world success stories demonstrating how proactive inspections and customer-focused service help maximize uptime and efficiency for every operation. Whether it’s a large tractor, combine, or small mower, the goal remains the same: to provide trusted, reliable support that helps farmers and landowners stay productive and confident in their equipment year-round.