Reed’s Dairy picks up pieces after fire destroys main processing plant

IDAHO FALLS, Idaho (KIFI) - The main production facility of Reed's Dairy in Idaho Falls was destroyed Thursday by fire.

And on Friday, the building is surrounded by a security fence.

What used to be windows and doors are all boarded up, and the cause of the fire remains under investigation. 

The aftermath of the fire at Reed's Dairy has far-reaching effects.

The dairy has been part of eastern Idaho for 76 years.

“I’ve cried. I've thrown up. I mean, that was the original milk barn. It's a difficult day,” Alan Reed said.

Reed’s Dairy has been a significant part of the community since it was established in 1948.

It started in milk and eventually ventured into ice cream.

“I knew that I had to make as high a quality ice cream as grandma did, or I would be in trouble,” he said.

Reed’s has done a lot to help the community besides just supplying delicious products.

In 2023, it made an effort through its delivery service to reduce carbon emissions. 

“If we weren't out making those deliveries with four trucks, one truck making delivery, 150 homes, those homes would be making 150 trips to the grocery store," Sam Reed said.

Reed’s Dairy has always been fueled by the community’s support.

“We're just so grateful for the community and the support that we get,” Alan Reed said.

Alan Reed says they will get through this. They just need to figure out what to do next.