Rebuilding Hope:
Supporting Crystal Ball Farms After the 2018 Fire

In March 2018, tragedy struck Crystal Ball Farms in Osceola, Wisconsin, when a devastating fire tore through the property, leaving behind significant damage and uncertainty. As a long-standing part of the local agricultural community, the loss was deeply felt by many.

Shortly after the fire, our team at J & S General Contracting was called in to assist with the recovery. We began by carefully demolishing all remaining structures on the property, clearing the way for a fresh start. It was a somber but important step—one that marked the beginning of a new chapter for the farm.

Once the site was cleared, we moved forward with the next phase: preparing the land for rebuilding. Our crews excavated and backfilled the area for a new 46' x 272' free stall barn, along with six manure tanks. We also installed water lines for livestock waterers, completed final grading around the building’s perimeter, and delivered over 550 tons of gravel to create solid, accessible entrances.

To help restore the land’s natural beauty, we finished the project by seeding the surrounding area with grass, applying starter fertilizer, and laying down straw mulch to encourage healthy growth.

It was an honor to be part of the effort to help Crystal Ball Farms rise from the ashes. We’re proud to support our neighbors in times of need and to contribute to the resilience and renewal of our farming community.