Four-alarm fire at Klehm Growers in Hampshire

Eighteen fire departments responded to a fire early Tuesday that caused an estimated $750,000 in damages to a Hampshire nursery.

Heavy fire had engulfed the rear of Klehm Growers at 44W637 Route 72 when emergency crews arrived after being called by a passer-by on a cellphone, Hampshire Fire Protection District Captain Trevor Herrmann said.

No one was injured, but about 50 percent of the greenhouse, measuring approximately 100 feet by 300 feet, was damaged by the fire, he said.

The four-alarm fire was brought under control at 7:15 a.m., and crews worked on putting out hot spots until early afternoon. There are no hydrants in that area, so water was brought in by 11 tankers containing 2,500 to 3,000 gallons each, Hermann said.

A woman who identified herself only as the wife of owner Arnold Klehm, of West Dundee, said the family has owned the business for 30 years. The nursery contained primarily orchids and foliage, she said. “This is a really highly stressful time,” she said, declining further comment.

Fire departments assisting included Rutland-Dundee, Burlington, Fox River and Countryside Fire/Rescue District, and Pingree Grove and Countryside.

Route 72 (State Street) was blocked to all traffic between Brier Hill and Romke Road for about seven hours until 12:30 p.m., Herrmann said.

The cause of the blaze remains under investigation, according to fire officials.