Simplot decommissions Aberdeen plant

The J.R. Simplot Co. is decommissioning its potato-processing plant in Aberdeen in Bingham County. The Boise agribusiness says all processing work there ended over the Labor Day weekend.

Simplot spokesman David Cuoio said it could take days or weeks to decommission the plant and pack up the remaining products. Although most of the employees have been laid off, there were still some assisting with decommissioning last week.

"We very much appreciate the employees who have continued to work at the Aberdeen plant these past (few) months under obviously difficult conditions," Cuoio said. "They've been flexible and professional. We commend their professionalism and thank them for their service. We wish them all the best in the future."

Simplot officials in 2011 announced their plans to close three Idaho potato plants - in Aberdeen, Caldwell and Nampa - and replace them with a state-of-the-art potato processing plant in Caldwell employing about 300 people. The actual date of the Aberdeen closure has been delayed several times in recent months. The Caldwell plant was demolished. The Nampa plant is expected to close Oct. 31.