By Andrea Arens

A massive fire tore through Woldhuis Sunrise Nursery late morning on January 15, destroying one greenhouse building, a food truck, damaging another building and drawing firefighters from across the region.

The blaze, fueled by 50 mph winds and complicated by blowing snow and icy roads, went to two alarms and required assistance from 19 different agencies.

The initial call came in at approximately 11:30 a.m., dispatching Grant Park Fire Protection District and its mutual-aid partners to the nursery, located about a mile northwest of Grant Park. Upon arrival, crews found heavy smoke and flames consuming a greenhouse structure and a nearby food truck.

The food truck was destroyed, and the greenhouse suffered catastrophic damage.

Due to the size of the fire, limited manpower, and hazardous weather conditions, a box alarm was requested. Departments as far away as Frankfort and Crown Point responded under mutual aid agreements. A neighboring fire chief assumed command as part of standard protocol.

In addition to the greenhouse and food truck, one other building on the property sustained damage. A structure referred to as the “pig pen” — which did not house animals — was burned, while another building known as the “chicken house” suffered smoke and water damage. No injuries were reported.

Trevor Woldhuis, representative for Sunrise, said they’re still assessing the damage and are hoping to use the building where the bathrooms were located.

“It definitely presents a challenge, especially with spring around the corner. We use every inch of space come spring,” said Woldhuis. He added that the growing greenhouses were not damaged, and insurance is already assessing damage. Fortunately, no injuries were reported.

“We’re so very thankful for the first responders’ quick response and the outpouring of support from the community,” said Woldhuis.

Woldhuis Sunrise Nursery is one of Chicagoland’s largest nurseries, making the loss significant for the local agricultural community. Firefighters battled the blaze for several hours before bringing it under control.

Officials continue to investigate the cause of the fire. The business has reopened.

Andrea Arens is a freelance reporter.