Safety is the top priority for both Dairyland Power Cooperative (DPC) and Chippewa Valley Electric Cooperative (CVEC). In recognition of the growing importance of efficient emergency response capabilities, the two cooperatives have joined forces to support a permanent, maintained helicopter landing zone that will be available for emergency medical transport.
Members of the community gathered for a donation ceremony on Oct. 24 at the site of the newly completed helipad at Rocque Ridge Outfitters, near Holcombe on Highway 27. Dairyland made a $1,000 donation to support this community project, matching a $1,000 donation from CVEC.
“Without a doubt, this project will help save lives right here in the community, and CVEC is proud to support it,” said CVEC President and CEO Russ Falkenberg. “We know that minutes matter when it comes to a medical emergency and we are eager to see this helipad be put to use here in the CVEC service area.”
The need for the landing pad is felt keenly by CVEC Member Services Representative Danielle Endvick. Her 58-year-old uncle passed away in an ambulance while enroute to receive medical care after suffering a heart attack at his home in Conrath, only a few miles from the new helipad site.
“In this remote corner of Chippewa County, our loved ones are far enough away from the larger medical facilities that emergency response times and access to resources like this helipad can mean the difference between life and death,” Endvick said.
A grassy site at the Rocque Ridge property has been used for medical emergencies, but the installation of a proper pad this fall addressed safety concerns. The 70x70-foot leveled helipad will be lit up and available 24/7, no matter the season, according to Rocque Ridge Outfitters owner Thomas Rocque.
Dairyland’s Cooperative Contributions Program continues to invest in initiatives that support safety, education, environmental stewardship and community well-being. “The contribution reflects our cooperatives' shared commitment to the communities we serve and our constant pursuit of innovative solutions to address safety needs,” said Dairyland President and CEO Brent Ridge.