The South Dakota State University dairy unit in Brookings, South Dakota caught fire last Tuesday. A 9-1-1 call was sent shortly before 8 a.m. and an all-clear notice was given around 9:30 a.m. According to an extension specialist, the damage is extensive. According to the Brookings County Sheriff’s Department, the fire appeared to have started in a manure pumping room and spread to other parts of the barn. “All animals, there were about 130 cows in the facility, are ok and all of the staff is ok,” said a South Dakota State University spokesperson. “There are no fatalities pertaining to the fire.” It’s unclear at this time how SDSU will address the damage that’s been done to the unit. “There are people on site going through the insurance process, evaluating what can be done in terms of replacing the facility, but we’ll act quickly. Right now, they’re working to make sure livestock are comfortable and safe in temporary pens and continue the milking cycle.”
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