08/08/2026
We do not typically make posts like this following an incident, but this was an extraordinary incident, involving an extraordinary number of agencies extraordinary amount of community support. The outpouring of help for the firefighters was something we felt deserved to be recognized and thanked.
Yesterday was a powerful reminder of what a community can accomplish when everyone comes together.
A multi-agency fire response brought fire departments from across Faribault County, along with departments from surrounding counties, together to battle a large hog barn fire. The coordination, communication, and cooperation between agencies was truly impressive. Departments worked side-by-side, supported one another, and did everything they could to manage an incredibly difficult situation.
But behind every fire is a family, a business, and a livelihood.
Our hearts go out to the property owner and to the people who work there. While we are incredibly thankful that no one was injured, there was a significant loss of animal life, and that loss should not be overlooked. We know how much work, time, and care goes into raising these animals, and we are truly sorry for what was lost yesterday.
We also want to recognize the community that stepped up to support the firefighters.
Local businesses throughout the area donated food and drinks, and a group of individuals came together and donated money to help purchase additional food and beverages for the crews. Those acts of generosity may seem simple, but when firefighters are working for hours in difficult conditions, having a hot meal, something to drink, and knowing the community is behind them means a tremendous amount.
To every fire department that answered the call, every firefighter who left whatever they were doing to respond, every business that donated, and every individual who contributed:
Thank you.
This is what a community looks like.
When someone is facing their worst day, we show up. We work together. We take care of one another. And yesterday, Faribault County and the surrounding communities did exactly that.
A direct thank you to the following local businesses: Shell, Kwik Trip, Jubas, McDonald's, Farmer's Daughters Kitchen, Bomgaars, Pizza Hut, Caseys, and Marketplace Foods.
