The devastating tornadoes that recently hit Kentucky and surrounding states also damaged fertilizer facilities in its path. The U.S. Coast Guard Sector Lower Mississippi River Incident Management Division on Dec. 13 reported a damaged warehouse storing approximately 2 million pounds of granular ammonium nitrate fertilizer. The report said the warehouse roof was significantly damaged. It was identified as the Bruce Oakley warehouse in Hayti, Mo. The company had not responded to inquiries at press time.
J.R. Simplot Co., Boise, reported that three of its Simplot Grower Solutions Stores – two in Kentucky and one in Arkansas – sustained significant damage. All employees were accounted for and safe with homes intact, but many areas were without electricity and running water. The company said it was working to clean up the locations, secure inventory, and ensure site safety.
Nutrien Ltd., Saskatoon, reported that approximately 39 Nutrien Ag Solutions retail locations were in the path of the storm and many sustained damage or lost power. However, it said there was no loss of integrity to any chemical containment units. Nutrien’s Nitrogen and Phosphate operations were not impacted.
“Safety and environmental protection are core values at Nutrien, and we continue to monitor the effects of the recent tornadoes which impacted several U.S. states last week,” a company spokesman told Green Markets. “We mourn the loss of life and extensive damage in so many communities where our colleagues and customers live and work. In response to these devastating events, Nutrien has made a $100,000 donation to the American Red Cross to support those who have been affected.”