News Summary
Residents of Franklin Springs are protesting against a proposed poultry rendering plant by Pilgrim’s Pride due to environmental concerns regarding the Broad River. Activist groups are fighting against potential pollution and health risks linked to the facility, as well as its impact on local ecosystems and drinking water supply. The community’s backlash is further stirred by discussions about the city’s wastewater treatment capacity, leading to petitions for political accountability and a withdrawal of support for the plant.
Franklin Springs Residents Protest Proposed Poultry Rendering Plant Amid Environmental Concerns
Franklin Springs, a small community of approximately 1,100 residents, is currently facing significant opposition to a proposed poultry rendering plant by Pilgrim’s Pride, primarily due to environmental concerns associated with the Broad River. Residents fear that the development could negatively impact local ecosystems and recreational activities, as well as the water source for drinking.
In response to growing public unrest, local activists and groups, including “Save Broad River” and “Stop the Rendering,” have rallied against the project. This opposition surged following rumors about the plant’s operation that surfaced in early March 2025, resulting in increased anxieties regarding potential pollution and health risks linked to the facility.
A concerning aspect highlighted by residents is the health impact the rendering plant could have on individuals with pre-existing conditions. One resident, who has faced health challenges, has been advised to relocate due to fears surrounding pollution from the proposed facility. Additionally, recent discussions have emerged regarding the city’s wastewater treatment capacity and its potential involvement with the rendering plant. Emails unveiled discussions between Pilgrim’s Pride and local officials that raised alarms about the area’s ability to manage wastewater from such operations.
In light of these developments, a petition has been launched calling for the removal of Franklin Springs Mayor Lee Moore from office. There is also increasing pressure on Franklin County commissioners to retract the wastewater treatment agreement linked to the proposed poultry rendering facility. Mayor Moore has asserted that although discussions have occurred, no contracts have been signed with Pilgrim’s Pride, and his focus remains on attracting new industries, including those related to poultry.
Community Backlash and Environmental Concerns
Local residents are particularly troubled by the potential impact the rendering plant could have on the Broad River, which serves as a vital recreational hub and drinking water supply for the community. Concerns have been raised regarding the environmental impact of wastewater and byproducts typically associated with rendering facilities, especially in sensitive ecosystems.
Franklin County officials have voiced their opposition to the poultry plant as part of a broader initiative to protect community safety and environmental integrity. Previous controversies surrounding similar proposals, such as a $70 million rendering plant in 2021 that was ultimately withdrawn, have left lingering concerns in the community about the handling and disposal of industrial byproducts.
Workforce Development Presentation Scheduled
As Franklin Springs navigates these contrasting issues—growing local industry opportunities and environmental concerns regarding the proposed poultry rendering plant—the community remains on alert, voicing their opinions and standing firm in their commitment to preserving local health and environmental conditions.
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Additional Resources
- Georgia Recorder: NE Georgia Community Ruffled Over Planned Poultry Processing Plant
- Grice Connect: Community Mourning the Loss of Georgia Southern’s Dr. Pamela Bourland-Davis
- Globe Newswire: LGI Homes Opens Mount Tabor Pointe
- Housing Finance: Mixed-Income Housing Community Opens in Georgia
- Savannah Now: Hyundai Georgia EV Plant
- Wikipedia: Poultry Rendering
