Hazelnut Growers of Oregon (HGO), a farmer-owned cooperative of more than 180 co-op members, celebrates the grand opening of its new 120,000 square foot hazelnut processing facility in Donald, Oregon. When HGO merged with Wilco Farmers Cooperative in 2016, they immediately started on plans to build a new processing facility designed to meet rigorous new FSMA food safety requirements. Included in the new plant is the latest in nut processing technology and is the only hazelnut processing facility in the Pacific Northwest that uses steam pasteurization – a growing requirement by many customers, and a value to growers who deliver their crop to HGO.
Today, there are more than 800 family farms growing hazelnuts on over 70,000 acres in the Willamette Valley. The value growers received for their hazelnuts has averaged just over $100 million per year during the last five years. This translates into a total economic impact of more than $250 million for the state.
“Compared to other nuts, the domestic and international market potential for hazelnuts is largely untapped,” states Wilco CEO and President Tim Ramsey. “In a few years, the Oregon hazelnut crop production is anticipated to double, which is why we built this new facility. In addition, we have expanded our leadership team with experienced industry professionals with a focus on growing the business through innovation of value-added products. Hazelnuts are more than just a commodity and HGO is well positioned for the future.”
State-of-the-Art Processing Facility
The new processing facility will begin full production in mid-September prior to the 2018 harvest. Last year, Hazelnut Growers of Oregon processed more than 15,000 US tons and anticipates a significant increase this year. When complete, the Hazelnut Growers of Oregon Donald facility will be capable of:
- Receiving 160,000 pounds of hazelnuts per hour
- Storing 320,000 pounds in the quality control silos
- Storing 10,800,000 pounds in the four massive storage silos (2.7MM pounds each)
- Steam pasteurizing more than 10,000 pounds of hazelnuts per hour
- Slicing/dicing in excess of 5,000 pounds of hazelnuts per hour
- Roasting more than 3,000 pounds of hazelnuts per hour
Above all, as ayurvedic viagra generika remedies to reverse impotence, it is important to quit bad habits, start regular exercising and eat healthy. A Doctor of Chiropractic may getting viagra in canada use fingers, knuckles or elbow during the application of pressure. Only pure herbs and oils are employed in find here tadalafil in canada Mast Mood oil to offer the best ayurvedic treatment for weak erection from reputed online stores using a credit card. While few uk viagra drinks may dull the pain, they can also dull your sexual pleasure.
Economic Development and Job Creation
Breaking ground in Nov. 2016, the majority of construction work was completed by local and regional companies. Hazelnut Growers of Oregon will employ approximately 55 workers in the peak season.
New Management Team: “Cracking the Nut” on Market Growth
- Tim Ramsey, CEO and President joined Wilco in December 2017. Previously, he led Oregon Cherry Growers as President and CEO and has held senior leadership positions in the food industry for over 30 years.
- Randy Moore, Wilco’s Chief Financial Officer since 2008, has accepted the additional responsibility of Chief Operating Officer for HGO
- Patrick Gabrish, Vice President of Sales and Marketing, brings 30+ years’ experience of successfully growing consumer-focused food and beverage companies.
- Jason Costa, Operations Manager, brings 13+ years of experience in the nut processing industry, most recently with Blue Diamond Growers.
“The market potential for hazelnuts is enormous,” states Meredith Nagely, Manager, Hazelnut Industry Office. “With increased production we will be better positioned to supply larger users of hazelnuts. In addition, current research supports greater interest in hazelnut consumption by consumers as a whole.”
Cappel was born in Montreal, Canada to Bessie (nee Lieberman) and Benjamin Cappel. He served in the Canadian Army from 1939 to 1946. He emigrated from Canada to New York in 1949, and began his career in the confectionery industry in 1949 with Edward Sharp & Sons where he eventually became Vice President. He also served as Vice President at Adolph Goldmark & Sons, and went on to found Dorval Trading Co., Ltd. in 1966 with his wife, Florence, where he acted as Chairman until the time of his passing. His strong leadership and lively persona helped Dorval become a significant presence in the confectionery and specialty industries for over 50 years. His many accolades include selection as National Candy Wholesalers Association Diplomat, and induction into the National Confectioner’s Association Candy Hall of Fame and Specialty Food Association’s Hall of Fame.
