The call came in about 1:15 p.m. The wall on one side of the building was damaged by the blast. According to Stratford Fire Chief Dan Ostrem, the cause of the explosion at 1525 370th St., is still unknown.

“We’re not 100 percent sure yet, we’re still working on that,” Ostrem said. “From what the reports are, they were starting to stir the manure pit and they were starting to pump the manure and they had an explosion.”

“We’re still trying to figure out where the fire is in the building,” said Ostrem. “We found hotspots throughout the ceiling.”

Officials said no people were injured but said they were unsure of the extent of damage to the building and animals inside.

-Messenger photo by Adri Sietstra A hog building that was damaged by an explosion is shown.

“As for loss right now, we have no idea,” said Ostrem.

Along with the Stratford Fire Department, the Hamilton County Sheriffs Office and local farmers responded.