Tragedy Strikes Wisconsin Farm: Farmer and 16 Cows Dead Due to Gas Poisoning
A heartbreaking incident unfolded at the Biadasz family farm in Amherst, Wisconsin, resulting in the untimely death of a young farmer named Michael Biadasz and 16 of his beloved cows. Investigators have now discovered that this tragedy is the unfortunate consequence of a “deadly dome of air” that formed in the farm’s manure holding tank.
It all began when the tank was being prepared for cleaning. Unbeknownst to the farm workers, warm upper air temperatures trapped dangerous gases, such as methane or sulfur oxide, in a dome of air. Tragically, Michael and the cows were overcome by these lethal fumes, leading to their untimely demise.
The shock and devastation that followed the incident were reflected in the words of Portage County Coroner Scott Rifleman, who said, “The family is devastated, absolutely devastated.” Friends, neighbors, and the local community paid tribute to Michael by lining the road passing the farm with tractors and machinery, reminding everyone of the passion and dedication he had for his work.
This unfortunate accident has brought attention to the need for stricter regulations regarding manure holding tanks to prevent such incidents from happening in the future. Experts from the National Agriculture Safety Database (NASD) emphasize the importance of proper ventilation and warning signs in areas where animals are stored. They recommend that owners adhere to construction and maintenance procedures and take precautionary measures to protect both workers and livestock from harmful manure gases.
Surprisingly, gas poisoning deaths often occur in closed areas, making this incident all the more shocking. The atmospheric pressure that day trapped the gases, preventing their dissipation. Authorities are currently conducting a thorough investigation to determine the exact cause of Michael Biadasz’s death. It is worth noting that for years, Michael had safely emptied the same tank without any incidents, making this tragedy even more perplexing and heartbreaking.
This is not the first time such a catastrophe has occurred. In 2007, a similar fate befell a family in Virginia when a pipe blockage caused a fatal buildup of methane gas, claiming the lives of five family members. These distressing incidents highlight the urgent need for improved safety measures and awareness regarding the potential dangers posed by manure holding tanks.
As we mourn the loss of Michael Biadasz and his cows, let us also raise awareness about farm safety and support the Mike Biadasz Farm Safety and Education Memorial Fund. By coming together, we can honor Michael’s memory and prevent such tragic accidents from devastating the lives of other farmers and their communities.
