PINE BLUFFS, Wyo. (AP) — Wyoming Malting has broken ground on its new Laramie County barley malting plant.

The company held a ceremonial groundbreaking in Pine Bluffs Friday and construction is expected to begin in the coming weeks. Officials say the project should be ready for occupancy by December or January.

Once up and running, Wyoming Malting will process grain into malt used in the production of beer and distilled spirits. Most of the malt will be sold to other breweries and distilleries, but the company plans to keep some for its own use at an on-site distillery.

The Wyoming State Loan and Investment Board gave the project nearly $3 million in grants and loans, which will be repaid through lease payments.

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