CHS : strengthens working relationships in the community

The grant was used for purchase of hazmat suits for hazardous material release protection and monitoring equipment to help identify safe zones during an incident.

'Obtaining new protection equipment is essential, because hazmat suits need to be replaced frequently to keep our firefighters safe from hazardous material,' says Tim Froeber, fire chief, Crookston Fire Department. 'Current monitors and sensors need to be replaced and maintained on a regular basis.'

CHS Mid Valley Grain in Crookston, Minn. recognizes the interconnection between business and the community.
'Mid Valley has helped leverage the strengths of the CHS location and fire department by providing monetary donations and site facilities for local emergency responders to create realistic training scenarios,' says Jerry Valley, environmental, health and safety specialist, CHS Mid Valley Grain. 'We also plan facility walkthroughs to ensure effective responses if needed.'

The equipment has been used so far in training exercises, which continue to help ensure efficient and safe responses to emergencies. The equipment and training will also impact 11 other rural area fire departments that need training and equipment resources. The fire department looks forward to the future training opportunities with CHS that will be beneficial during a true emergency.

The new CHS Seeds for Stewardship program allows cooperatives to apply for up to $5,000 for projects like this one that improve ag safety, develop the next generation of ag leaders and enhance rural vitality. For more information, visit chsinc.com/stewardship.