Aug 1, 2003 12:00 PM

Reinke resumed production of trailers and container chassis two weeks after its plant in Deshler NE was struck by a series of tornadoes June 22, according to Bob Friehe, company president. The firm manufactures mechanized irrigation systems and over-the-road trailer/chassis equipment.

Reinke offices are in full operation. Incoming freight is being received, and all utilities have been restored to the plant.

During the storm, the east end of the main trailer/chassis production building was damaged, a corner of the roof on the east end of the main office building was partially lifted up, and several overhead doors on other buildings were blown off. Irrigation and trailer/chassis parts inventories were not damaged.

Repairs have begun on all affected areas, new overhead doors are being installed, and all debris has been removed from the plant site. Engineers have deemed all buildings stable, and Reinke's irrigation employees have returned to work on all shifts. Many trailer/chassis employees are on site assisting in the restoration.

“I want to thank the Reinke employees and volunteers who have worked around the clock to get our irrigation production and shipping up and running in an impressive two days,” Friehe said. “We're now fully capable and prepared to handle the system production demands of the upcoming busy watering season.”