Photo: Western Milk Pool

By Jordan Rein

Opens spring 2025

Western Milk Pool provides update on $75 million Dairy Innovation West in Blackfalds

Apr 10, 2024 | 12:20 PM

Construction on a multi-million dollar milk concentration plant north of Red Deer continues to progress.

The Western Milk Pool (WMP), a collaboration between BC Milk, BC Dairy, Alberta Milk, SaskMilk and Dairy Farmers of Manitoba, are building Dairy Innovation West (DIW), a state-of-the-art milk concentration plant under construction in Blackfalds, AB.

The first facility of its kind in Canada, officials say DIW marks a significant advancement in the dairy industry’s commitment to innovation and environmental sustainability. Representing an investment of $75 million, DIW is said to be at the forefront of adopting innovative practices and technologies aimed at reducing emissions, aligning with the industry’s target of achieving net zero by 2050.

“The progress on DIW is a significant leap forward for the dairy industry in Western Canada,” shares Henry Holtmann, Chair, DIW. “This project is not only setting a precedent for facilities like this in the country, but it is also a testament to western Canadian dairy farmers’ commitment to innovation and sustainability. As we continue to advance, we are confident that DIW will serve as a shining example of what can be achieved when farmers come together to drive positive change.”

Officials say on-site construction activity started in December 2023, managed by Pacific Process Canada Ltd. Over the next several months, officials say Pacific Process is working to complete construction milestones including piling work, groundwork and fabrication of the precast building panels. Substantial completion of the facility is targeted for November 2024, with operational testing to begin first with water, followed by milk trials from January through March 2025. The official opening of the facility is on track for Spring 2025.

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“Our team has been hard at work, laying the foundation for what will be a game-changer in Canada’s dairy industry,” said Chris Scheidt, President, Pacific Process. “DIW is not just a building; it’s a symbol of collaboration, innovation and progress for dairy farmers across Western Canada. With each project milestone we reach, we are one step closer to completing this industry leading milk concentration plant.”

Once operational, officials say DIW will result in a reduction of the western Canadian dairy industry’s environmental footprint through the concentration of liquid raw milk. For every three or four trucks of raw milk coming in from local farms, officials note one truck of concentrate will leave for a processing plant. DIW is expected to have the capability to produce reverse osmosis (RO) milk ingredients (whole and skim) as well as ultra-filtered (UF) skim milk and cream.

By supporting projects like DIW, officials say the dairy industry is demonstrating its commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainability, setting a new standard for dairy production in Canada.

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