11/3/2009 9:59:00 AM Many factors led to seizure of dairy cows Richard Yarke worked alone and was physically unable to care for his herd
By Bryan Zollman
Getty Township-There were a variety of factors that led to the Oct. 26 seizing of 47 dairy cattle from a farm southeast of Sauk Centre.
According to authorities, Richard Yarke was an aging, financially-strapped farmer, working alone while operating a dairy operation in stressful economic times, on a farm with inadequate infrastructure.
Authorities became aware of the situation last April when the Stearns County Sheriff's Department received a call to check on the welfare of Yarke, 69.
When Deputy Tim Kantos arrived on the scene he noticed less than desirable conditions on the farm.
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