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The recent closures of Tyson chicken processing plants in the Ozarks have triggered an economic soul-searching in the region. Tyson, which has had a presence in the Ozarks for decades, has closed its plants in Noel and Monett, Missouri, leaving hundreds of local workers without jobs.
These closures are causing serious economic ripples that are being felt far and wide. According to the Washington Post, locals are worried that Tyson’s departure will devastate the communities, sending “an immediate economic chill through town.” Regionally, Missouri Governor Mike Parson says the closures will cost the state “hundreds of millions of dollars,” while the University of Missouri estimates the impact could be upwards of $900 million statewide.
Tyson’s departure is especially devastating to the local poultry industry and agribusiness community. With the loss of Tyson, there is less demand for locally produced chicken, which is a major source of income for many local farmers and producers in the region. There are also fears that Tyson’s absence will create a “void” in the poultry supply chain, leading to higher prices for consumers.
In response, local leaders are trying to mitigate the economic damage by creating new jobs and seeking out alternative sources of income. The state is investing in workforce training and incentives, while some leaders in the agricultural space are attempting to expand the poultry market and explore novel solutions such as vertical integration.
The closures have also prompted local residents to reflect on the impact of Tyson on the region and how it could have been done differently. For example, local leaders are questioning whether Tyson could have kept its promise to create a local jobs and improved wages for its employees. Others are calling for greater transparency and a more collaborative approach between businesses and local communities.
The closures of Tyson’s chicken processing plants in the Ozarks serve as a reminder that local economies are vulnerable to external forces beyond their control. However, with creative thinking and bold action, local communities can begin to look towards the future and develop strategies to make the Ozarks a healthier, more vibrant place to live and work.