Heifer Ranch sustains extensive storm damage

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (April 26, 2011) – Heifer International’s Ranch, located in Perryville, Ark., sustained significant damage in the strong storms that moved through the state last night.

Several buildings, including the horse, dairy and lambing barns, were destroyed, as well as a pump house and yurts, felt-covered dwelling native to Central Asia, in the Ranch’s Global Village section Several roofs were damaged, including the main conference center, an office building and a vacant residential facility.  Heifer employees and volunteers are working to clear many downed trees and to cover exposed structures with tarpaulins. 

All Heifer Ranch employees, residents, volunteers are safe and guests who were participating in activities at the Ranch have returned to their homes.   

The Ranch will be closed to the public for the remainder of the week and Heifer Ranch staff will contact groups affected by this closure.  Heifer will continue to provide updates as they become available.

Heifer’s mission is to end hunger and poverty while caring for the Earth. Since 1944, Heifer International has provided livestock and environmentally sound agricultural training to improve the lives of those who struggle daily for reliable sources of food and income. Heifer is currently working in more than 50 countries, including the United States, to help families and communities become more self-reliant.

For more information, visit www.heifer.org or call 501-907-2952.