On a sunny summer morning in 2016, a routine task turned into a devastating tragedy on a farm in Amherst, Wisconsin. Michael Biadasz, a 29-year-old passionate farmer, lost his life, along with 16 of his cattle, due to an invisible and unexpected threat.
Mike had spent countless hours working on his family’s farm, and the task he was performing that morning was one he had done many times before. However, on this particular day, an unusual weather pattern created a deadly combination. A layer of warm air trapped toxic fumes from the manure pit, preventing them from dispersing. The gases, likely methane or hydrogen sulfide, quickly overwhelmed Mike, and he succumbed to the poisonous air.
Steve Burclaw, a farm worker and close friend of Mike’s, arrived at the scene expecting a normal day of work. However, he was met with a horrific sight – Mike lying motionless near the manure pit. The farm workers were shocked and distraught, and the news of Mike’s passing sent shockwaves through the community.
The Portage County Coroner later explained that the tragedy was caused by an extremely rare weather phenomenon. The atmospheric conditions that day created a deadly trap, allowing the toxic gases to accumulate and become lethal.
Mike’s family was devastated by the news, and his sudden loss left a void in the lives of those who knew him. His parents and three sisters struggled to come to terms with the tragedy, and the community rallied around them in support. Over 1,200 people attended Mike’s visitation, a testament to the impact he had on those around him.
In the wake of their grief, Mike’s family and friends turned their sorrow into action. They established the Mike Biadasz Farm Safety and Education Memorial Fund to raise awareness about the dangers of manure gas exposure and provide farmers with the knowledge and tools to stay safe. The fund’s mission is to prevent similar tragedies and ensure that farmers have the resources they need to protect themselves and their workers.
Through educational events, safety training, and advocacy, the Mike Biadasz Farm Safety and Education Memorial Fund is working to create a safer farming environment. The fund’s efforts are a fitting tribute to Mike’s memory, and his legacy will live on through the positive impact he had on the farming community.
The story of Mike Biadasz serves as a stark reminder of the hidden dangers that farmers face every day. By sharing his story and raising awareness about farm safety, we can help prevent similar tragedies and honor Mike’s memory.
