Firefighters and investigators today will begin exploring the damage to the Farmland Foods plant in the wake of a fire that still threatens to flare up in hot spots.

Wednesday, July 11, 2001

Firefighters and investigators today will begin exploring the damage to the Farmland Foods plant in the wake of a fire that still threatens to flare up in hot spots.

Tired fire crews got the fire under control Monday afternoon, after it had burned since 5 p.m. Sunday.

Fresh crews arrived at the scene this morning, still fighting a couple of stubborn hot spots within the complex.

&uot;We’re still having some hidden fires that are just hanging on,&uot; said Albert Lea Fire Department Captain Mark Roche.

Because the building still has not been declared safe, it has been difficult to get a good idea about the extent of the damage, he said. That could change today, as Roche said he expects investigation to begin.

After more than a day fighting the fire, crews are feeling the effects, he said.

&uot;Between the ammonia releases and the heat, it’s taken its toll,&uot; Roche said.

Damage is believed to be in the millions of dollars.