On August 15, 2016, a tragic accident claimed the life of 29-year-old Michael Biadasz, a dedicated farmer from Amherst, Wisconsin. Michael was performing routine maintenance on his family’s farm, agitating manure in an open lagoon, when he was overcome by hydrogen sulfide gas. This deadly gas, which is heavier than air Read More
, accumulated due to an unusual combination of still air and heavy fog, creating a “deadly dome” that led to the deaths of Michael and sixteen cattle.
The Incident
Early that morning, Michael approached the task with his characteristic enthusiasm, even sharing a photo on Snapchat, referring to the manure as “liquid gold.” However, when the crust atop the pit broke open, hydrogen sulfide gas was released. Normally, this toxic gas would dissipate quickly, but the still air and heavy fog trapped it at ground level. Michael was found by a friend and farm employee, Steve Burclaw, two hours later, along with thirteen dead cattle. Three more cattle succumbed to the gas shortly after.
A Family’s Response
In the wake of this devastating loss, the Biadasz family turned their grief into action. At Michael’s funeral, they decided to forgo flowers and instead invited donations to a farm safety fund. This decision marked the beginning of the Mike Biadasz Farm Safety and Education Memorial Fund, aimed at preventing similar tragedies.
Promoting Farm Safety
The fund supports various initiatives, including providing rebates for farmers to rent portable gas monitors. These monitors can detect dangerous gas levels, offering a crucial warning and potentially saving lives. The Biadasz family has also been active in raising awareness about farm safety through workshops, fundraising events, and media outreach.
Continuing Michael’s Legacy
Michael Biadasz’s legacy lives on through the efforts of his family and the broader farming community. His father, Bob Biadasz, often recalls Michael’s motto: “Live today like you are going to die tomorrow. But farm today like you are going to farm forever.” This sentiment underscores the importance of safety and preparedness in farming, ensuring that future generations can continue this vital work safely.
