IA: AGRISTAR PLANT FIRE
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POSTVILLE, Iowa (KWWL) — A large fire damaged the AgriStar Meat & Poultry plant in Postville early this morning, prompting a response from fire crews across the region.
The flames broke out around 4 a.m. 16 crews from Northeast Iowa spent nearly 13 hours trying to extinguish the blaze.
According to the Postville mayor, Agri-Star is the largest employer in the community. The plant appeared to be closed, and KWWL was asked to leave the property. People in Postville are being asked to conserve water after the amount it took to put out the flames.
The mayor is hoping to see people come together to help with recovery efforts. “We’re gonna start to see some helping hands, you know, as far as, there’s lots of organizations,” the mayor said.
A smoke advisory was issued in Fayette County. A warning of possible visibility and air quality issues in the Clermont area was reported, and the smoke continued southwest throughout the day.
Officials say no injuries were reported. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
Agri-Star’s corporate office has not yet responded to requests for comment or information about how long the plant might be closed.
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