Simplot Caldwell: An Earth-First Approach

In its first year occupying a new mix plant, J.R. Simplot’s Caldwell, ID, retail outfit is taking environmental stewardship seriously with a new companywide philosophy. “Our overall mission is ‘Bringing Earth’s resources to life’, and it is shared with all employees and labeled on a lot of our shirts, hats and note pads,” says Unit Supervisor Tony Severa. “It is expected to be carried out on a daily basis by every employee, in the way they show care and dedication to both their job and the environment.”

As far as the facility itself is concerned, Simplot Caldwell is breaking in some new digs this season. “We have a new facility as this is the first season for our new mix plant,” says Severa. “Everything is covered and contained, including loading and unloading of product, and we have fire extinguishers throughout the entire plant and receive monthly inspections. Also, every storage bin and product is labeled for use.”

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“Our facility also just did a ‘spruce up’ and planted new shrubs, trimmed trees and thatched our lawn to make it more appealing,” adds Sevara.  

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Along with its new mix plant, which features product mixing under roof all on a sloped concrete, the company invests heavily in its most crucial resource: people.

“We have monthly safety meetings that cover a number of different topics and training, and all employees are made aware of chemicals hazards before handling any product,” says Sevara. “All Tier forms are filed and with our local agencies in the case of a fire or disaster.”

The operation also places an emphasis on giving back to its employees, according to Sevara. “We have annual summer barbecue and Christmas parties, all to thank our employees,” he says.

Also crucial to the Simplot Caldwell cause is embracing community outreach, which the operation does through a variety of activities. “We are always striving to reach out to our growers and members of our young community,” says Sevara. “And we donate our time and goods to the local schools for different events as well.”

Note: J.R. Simplot in Caldwell, ID, is a 2012 state Environmental Respect Award winner. For more information on this program, which is sponsored by DuPont, click here.

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