I found this youtube video of a plant tour of the Mepps assembly plant and thought some of you might find it interesting.
‪Made in Wisconsin visits Sheldons' Inc.‬‏ - YouTube

NightProwler
**plus here is the step they recommend for preserving squirrel tails from their website.**

Please follow these instructions carefully:
  1. Tails are best on squirrels taken after October 1st.
  2. Do NOT remove the bone from the tail. Deboned and split tails have no value.
  3. Salt the butt end of the tail generously. Use either dry salt or dip in a strong saltwater solution.
  4. Be sure the tail is straight before drying. Tails that dry in a curled position cannot be used.
  5. Keep tails away from flies. Best storage is in a freezer. Do not send tails that have been exposed to flies.
  6. Do not put tails in a plastic bag for storage or shipment. They could heat up and spoil.
  7. The best time to ship is during cold weather months (Jan, Feb, & Mar). Dried squirrel tails may be shipped anytime.
  8. Put your name, address, phone number, e-mail address, and tail count inside each package.
  9. Send your tails to:
    Sheldons', Inc.
    626 Center St.
    Antigo, WI 54409-2496