Conagra Foods Lamb Weston closes Prosser potato processing plant

ConAgra Foods Lamb Weston told 250 workers at its Prosser potato processing plant today that the plant will shut down on May 30.

ConAgra spokesman Jeff Mochal said the decision is a reflection of the economy and a soft market for frozen potato products, in conjunction with the Prosser plant being the most expensive to operate in the region.

A frozen food warehouse will stay open. About 30 people work there now, but Mochal said ConAgra hasn't yet decided how the company will staff the warehouse once the plant closes.

He said some jobs may be available for the displaced Prosser workers at other ConAgra operations in the Mid-Columbia. No other ConAgra plants are slated for closure.

The company bought the plant from Twin City Foods in 2007. There are no plans to sell the plant, Mochal said.