Historic central Minnesota feed mill destroyed in fire

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The Holdingford Feed Mill in central Minnesota was completely destroyed in a fire late Sunday evening, according to county officials. Dispatchers received multiple calls around 7:40 p.m. reporting flames and explosions at the historic mill. Firefighters were able to extinguish the blaze, but the building suffered severe damage, while nearby grain bins remained standing. No one was inside the mill at the time, and no injuries were reported. The cause of the fire is under investigation.

Why it matters

The Holdingford Feed Mill has been a fixture in the central Minnesota community for nearly 130 years, serving local farmers and businesses. Its destruction represents a significant loss for the region, both economically and historically. The fire also raises concerns about the safety and resilience of aging industrial infrastructure in rural areas.

The details

According to the Stearns County Sheriff's Office, dispatchers received several calls around 7:40 p.m. on Sunday reporting a fire at the Holdingford Feed Mill. Callers said they could see flames and hear explosions coming from the mill. Deputies arrived to find the fire spreading to other parts of the building. Several local fire departments responded and were able to extinguish the flames, but the feed mill was severely damaged and is considered a complete loss. Other nearby grain bins remained standing.

• The fire was reported to dispatchers around 7:40 p.m. on Sunday, February 16, 2026.
• Firefighters were able to extinguish the blaze, but the damage to the feed mill was extensive.

What they’re saying

What’s next

The Stearns County Sheriff's Office is continuing to investigate the cause of the fire at the Holdingford Feed Mill.