Twin storms last week caused unprecedented damage to Pacem in Terris Hermitage Retreat Center in Isanti. Thousands of broken off, twisted, and downed trees litter the 240-acre grounds and trails. At least 13 of the retreat center’s 25 buildings were damaged, some significantly.
“In the 36-year history of Pacem in Terris, we have never witnessed damage like this,” Tim Drake, executive director said in a press release. “You can stand anywhere on the property, and see destruction in every direction. For three days, the roads were completely impassable.”
The retreat center had four guests during the Aug. 26 storm, which caused the majority of the damage. Miraculously, those hermitages received little or no damage. All guests were kept safe. A second storm dropped a few more trees when it passed on Thursday afternoon, Drake said.
Staff and volunteers worked for three days to clear the roads of downed trees and debris. Professional tree crews were brought in to remove trees that had fallen on the retreat center’s hermitages and a house on the property. Currently, the retreat center’s 3 miles of trails remain blocked by debris.
“It will take months, if not years, to clean up all the downed trees,” added Drake.
Pacem has set up a fundraising effort to help cover the costs associated with clean-up and recovery. A generous benefactor is currently matching charitable donations dollar for dollar. Those interested in helping to support the campaign can visit: https://www.givemn.org/story/Ey5q3f