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Many cows were killed in a barn fire in Arthur

Many cows were killed in a barn fire in Arthur

The August 26 fire caused a barn to collapse that had held up to 300 beef cattle, but the exact number of dead cattle is as yet unknown.

By Andrew Joseph, Farms.com; Photo by Dallas Penner on Unsplash – Photo is a general image of a barn fire.  

This past Saturday, August 26, 2023, saw a barn that housed up to 300 beef cattle burn to the ground.

Although no farm workers or emergency responders were hurt in the blaze, many cattle did die, but the exact number is not yet known.

Several fire stations responded to the barn fire at around 4 p.m. in the area of Line 12 between Sideroad 3 and Wellington Road 14 near Arthur, Ontario.

It is feared that the cattle loss could be significant, despite the efforts of neighbours working to help remove the panicked animals to safety.

The fire service is guesstimating that over 100 cows were killed.

Although unable to provide specifics, fire officials believe that the fire started somewhere in the hayloft.

The fast-moving fire caused a corner of the barn to collapse within 10 minutes of the arrival of fire services, with the entire building collapsing soon after.

With the loss of animal life and the barn, the cost of damages could be in the millions of dollars.

Every year, incidents of fire are reported. Farms.com has previously written about methodologies to help protect yourself and your properties.

Please read a recent article re: Fire Safety Measures for Smooth Harvest Season.  


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Shearing Delay Leads To Kingston 4H Sheep Show!

Video: Shearing Delay Leads To Kingston 4H Sheep Show!

What started as a disappointment turned into a day full of surprises, fun, and celebration as we leave Ewetopia Farms behind and head out to the Kingston Fair to watch the 4H sheep show

Today’s vlog was supposed to be another sheep shearing day here at Ewetopia Farms, but when our shearer had to cancel, we suddenly found ourselves with an unexpected free day. Lucky for us, the Kingston Fair was happening — and some of our own sheep (and friends) were competing!

We brought along our shearing helper and headed to the fairgrounds to cheer on the 4H kids and see how our sheep did in the show. From last-minute preparations and sheep showmanship to market lamb competitions and ewe classes, we take you behind the scenes of what it’s really like at a country fair.

We couldn’t be prouder — our girls walked away with wins in both showmanship and breeding ewe classes! Afterwards, we toured the fair, met a beekeeper with fascinating insights, admired other livestock shows, and wrapped up the evening with motocross stunts and a demolition derby!

Sometimes farm life throws curveballs — but today, it gave us the chance to celebrate community, our sheep, and the next generation of shepherds.