Water covers a roadway and farm near Middlebourne May 12. (Photo provided)

Beth Adler’s passion is animal rescue, but after last Thursday’s storm and subsequent flash flood, one of the safest places for farm animals in Tyler County has become a hazard.

Horse Feathers Farm and Rescue, located on Little Sancho Creek Road just outside Middlebourne, is a nonprofit organization situated on 15 acres and is the home of nearly 60 rescued animals including geese, peacocks, horses, mules and goats. The flash flood, however, has reduced the farmland to mud, as downed fences and debris clutter the grounds.

“I can’t believe this,” Adler said. “We are so overwhelmed.”

The storm damaged the grounds, fences, out buildings and some of the farm equipment and claimed the life of one of Adler’s goats. A goose is also listed as missing, though Adler says she doubts the female will be found alive.

Because the farm is one of the few properties damaged in the storm, no state assistance is expected to be available to the family. For this reason, Adler is reaching out in search of volunteers to help with the cleanup effort.

“We need people to help mend the fences and clean up the debris,” she said. “Whatever help we can get would be greatly appreciated.”

Anyone interested in volunteering should contact Adler at 304-758-4442.