© 2024 KRWG
News that Matters.
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

Horse Advocates Want Pollution Fines On Meat Plant

 

LAS CRUCES, N.M. (AP) — A Colorado-based horse advocacy group says a New Mexico company seeking to become nation's first slaughterhouse for horses since 2007 should face fines for violating laws on waste disposal.

The Albuquerque Journal reports that state Environment Department received a letter this week from Front Range Equine Rescue calling for fines against Valley Meat Co. The Roswell-area slaughterhouse has hauled 400 tons of composted cattle parts from its property after two years of prodding by the state Environment Department.

But Front Range Equine Rescue says the company should still be fined for past offenses first highlighted by a USDA inspector in January 2010.

Fines can reach $5,000 daily per violation, so Valley Meat could be subject to millions in fines.

Valley Meat Co. officials could not be reached for comment.

Copyright 2012 The Associated Press.