- The design and location of a feed mill should be guided by the customers
it is to serve with important consideration given to soil conditions and whether
or not an area is prone to flooding (Parr, 1988).
- It is important that the mill be located so that any impacts from wet conditions
are minimized and the area kept free of heavy undergrowth and bushes.
- It is equally important that local transportation infrastructure be utilized
to the extent that railroad spurs, wharves, and highways are considered for
receipt of raw ingredients and also for the ease and cost-effectiveness with
which the farmers are to receive their feed.
- Areas prone to flooding, tidal inundation, and fire should be avoided if
at all possible. It is important to remember that if the mill cannot deliver
feed on schedule due to flood or other natural disaster the feed miller is
not the only one at risk, but it may put the farmer at risk as well.
- It is important to locate the plant such that future expansion of mill
facilities can be accomplished cost-effectively. Initially, the mill equipment
should be sized and designed to allow for expansion and easy change of equipment
as new techniques in milling evolve and/or the culture species change. Flexibility
in the mill design is vital if one is to remain competitive.
- Safety and hygiene factors should be built into the plant design. Buildings
should be designed to prevent the entrance and harboring of vermin and birds.
- Cleaning and maintenance of all buildings and the avoidance of uncleanable
recesses should be considered in the design and construction and in the selection
of materials.
- The property should be configured to contain and/or manage any spills or
runoff from the mill site. In wet areas elevator and receiving pits should
have drains (and/or sump pumps) to prevent flooding (McEllhiney, 1994).
- It is important, too, that the plant be a good commercial neighbor, that
by design it is inoffensive and a positive force in the community, complying
with local health, safety, and environmental regulations and always presents
a clean and neat appearance.
- Regular inspections by management are important to assure the good outward
appearance and a high standard of cleanliness, as well as to be certain that
all equipment is performing to specification.
