Opposition Grows On Denver Slaughterhouse Ban

Opposition Grows On Denver Slaughterhouse Ban

Russell Nemetz
Russell Nemetz
Next week voters in Colorado will make the final decision on two anti-agriculture policy measures – Prohibition of Slaughterhouses and Prohibition of Fur Products. More specifically, Initiated Ordinance 309, more commonly referred to as the Denver Slaughterhouse Ban, would shut down existing and future livestock processing operations in Denver beginning in January 2026. American Sheep Industry Association President and Wyoming Rancher Brad Boner says Initiated Ordinance 309 is just another activist attack on animal agriculture.

Today, there is only one slaughterhouse operating in Denver city limits – Superior Farms, Inc. – the largest lamb processor in the U.S.

Earlier this year, Colorado State University conducted an analysis on the implications of shutting down Superior Farms, finding the “most pessimistic” potential economic impact to Colorado would be a reduction of $861 million in current economic activity and nearly 2,800 jobs lost. Those in opposition also say if passed, Initiated Ordinance 309 could set a very dangerous precedent for other U.S. cities and states.

Source: Ag Information Network & Western Ag Network

Previous ReportCattle Producers Want Long-Term Tax Relief
Next ReportDistressed Agricultural Borrowers Get $250 Million in USDA Assistance