Vermont agriculture officials are urging farmers to remove snow from barn roofs as it continues to pile up in heavy amounts.
Deputy Agriculture Secretary Diane Bothfeld says removing snow as it accumulates is the best way to avoid a barn collapse and potential damage or injury to farmers and their livestock.
Officials say many agricultural buildings in Vermont are built for a total roof load of 50 pounds per square foot, including the weight of framing trusses, rafters and ceiling. A few feet of snow could quickly exceed that capacity.
Officials say buildings may lose their structural integrity after about 30 days if the snow is not cleared so it’s imperative to remove the snow as soon as possible.