The Free Press, Mankato, MN

Local News

December 22, 2010

Farmamerica roof collapses

The Free Press

WASECA — First the Metrodome’s roof collapse, now Farmamerica’s.

Heavy snows have caved in a large portion of a machine shed at the rural Waseca agriculture interpretive center, resulting in damages that could exceed $100,000.

What’s more, the structure is uninsured because of prohibitive premium costs at a facility that has struggled for years to generate adequate funding.

“And now we’re confronted with another need that will bear upon our ability to meet our budget,” said Farmamerica Executive Director Jim Gibson.

He said the collapse of the 100-foot-long pole barn roof was exacerbated by its age — it’s at least 35 years old — and by the facility’s inability to provide needed upgrades.

Gibson said a roof portion on another part of the building received some damage last year and was reinforced, but there wasn’t enough money to do the same on the entire structure.

Removing the collapsed roof will be tricky because portions of it are resting on antique farm equipment in danger of being damaged further.

Gibson said three trams used to transport visitors were severely damaged and two may be irreparable.

People interested in helping to move equipment and perform other recovery tasks can call 507-835-2052. Especially needed is a crane to lift roof sections.

Farmamerica was commissioned in 1978 to preserve and promote the heritage of Minnesota agriculture, offering visitors experiential learning exhibits and programs depicting rural life from the 1850s to the present.

It receives $128,000 annually from the state for operating costs and raises other funds from events, grants and donations.  

 

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