The Big Sandy Mountaineer -

Big Sandy Organics has hired Claude Smith. He recently retired from his other job in Great Falls and is excited to take the reins and help Big Sandy Organics continue to grow. What is exciting is while talking to him, you realize the positive impact that Big Sandy Organics continued development will have on the town Big Sandy.

Claude told me currently he is "Designing a new facility along with modern production lines. We are designing a new production facility because we have outgrown this one. It will have two modern production lines, one for organic products and one for conventional products. We have been outsourcing different equipment that we need on a much larger scale. The building is designed, the production line is about 80% designed. This is where we want to go next year."

He continued with excitement about, "More jobs, economic development for the town of Big Sandy. We have made a commitment to meet our customer's needs, and it is hoped Big Sandy will be that site."

Last year, Big Sandy Organics had four employees; this year, they have nine employees. In the future, they are looking at 12 employees.

Thomas and Claude went to Wisconsin looking at the equipment they will need.

They want the facility to be on the edge of town to not interfere with town traffic; however, not to be so far out as not to be a part of the town. They'd like to be close to enough to eat lunch and be involved in the town's other activities.

He has designed half a dozen facilities already, and he said, "I think folks will be happy with what I have designed."

"This is a real deal. We have the sales. Lots of time, people build a facility hoping they will have the sales. It's built before they have the sales. Thomas and Heather have done a good job of securing the sales." Once the building is up, they will be able to be meet the requirements of their customers. "The customers are waiting because they like the idea of supporting a small rural community."

"Thomas came from a small town; that is why he has such a passion for the town of Big Sandy."

"It is a huge investment for Big Sandy. It could have been done easier in Havre, Missoula, or Great Falls, but the Dilworth's want to invest in Big Sandy. We want to say we are a part of the fabric of Big Sandy. Our customers want to say they are helping a small community and local farmers. We want to be a part of the process that supports Big Sandy."