The $1 billion project, approved in 2021 by Darigold’s farmer-owners, aims to expand production capabilities, support on-farm growth, and increase global market reach. The site was strategically chosen for its proximity to member farms and transportation networks. With nearly 200 direct jobs and up to 1,000 supported across logistics and agriculture, the Pasco plant is expected to deliver long-term regional economic benefits. Powdered milk and butter production will ramp up in phases through the end of 2025.

The facility also advances Darigold’s alignment with the U.S. Dairy Net Zero Initiative. It features low-emission burner technology, wastewater reuse via an anaerobic digester, and transport efficiencies due to its location within the Port of Pasco. These strategies are designed to significantly reduce carbon and nitrogen oxide emissions, aligning with the industry’s 2050 environmental stewardship targets.

Partnerships were key to the project’s realization. The Port of Pasco worked with Darigold since 2020 to invest over $25 million in infrastructure upgrades to support the Reimann Industrial Center, where the facility is located. The collaboration involved architectural firm E.A. Bonelli & Associates and builder Miron Construction, showcasing how coordinated efforts between public and private sectors can enable large-scale agribusiness investment.