On July 19, 2016, a lightning strike ignited a prairie fire across the highway adjacent to the Peak View Wind project. A lightning stand down was quickly initiated on-site. Fagen Field Management Staff heard several radio calls reporting smoke and flames at that location. After verifying, Fagen staff initiated a 911 call to notify emergency responders. Fagen, Invenergy, and an on-site subcontractor collaborated and prepared to assist. Three water tankers and two water trucks were staged at the site entrance, while a small team determined how best to make a path to the fire. During this time three motor graders, one scraper, and a D6 dozer were mobilized and staged approximately 400 yards west of the project entrance, waiting on direction from the fire department. The equipment was directed to establish a fire break around the entire fire, which took a few hours and ultimately stopped the fire. Fagen staff assisted at the entrance my keeping a sign-in sheet for all personnel who entered the location to ensure everyone was accounted for. The Fagen Emergency Action Plan was put in place in the event that the fire would cross the highway. All Fagen vehicles were moved to the seven acre laydown yard approximately three miles away. Computers were gathered up in preparation for an evacuation. Years of experience and adherence to our company’s policies and procedures prepared our Field Management Staff to respond quickly and effectively to this serious situation.
