Opportunity from ashes

The recent fire that destroyed Blue Grass Stockyards was horrific. The rapidity with which the structure burned surprised everyone. No doubt high winds were the main factor, but one thing probably overlooked was the presence of methane gas.

As animal feces leach into underlying rock, it breaks down into several organic compounds that leach into the voids and produce methane gas. Although probably not concentrated enough to create a problem by itself, any amount of methane present would have contributed to the conflagration.

The owners now have the opportunity to construct on the site a new facility that does less damage to the environment and serves local farmers for years to come.

The toxic brew of runoff could be collected and pumped directly into the waste-water storage tank that the city just constructed adjacent to the stockyards. A fire-resistant structure with sprinklers could be constructed. Perhaps an impervious membrane could be installed under the structure to stop the groundwater contamination that has gone on for years.

Air conditioning and good lighting could be installed so that local farmers could attend evening sales while their families enjoy nearby shops and restaurants.

This story was originally published February 14, 2016 at 7:42 AM with the headline "Opportunity from ashes."