GROVETON, Texas — Groveton Fire Department Association (FD) accepted a Texas A&M Forest Service
Rural Volunteer Fire Department cost-share grant to help purchase a 2018 F550 small brush truck.
“This new truck is replacing an older vehicle and will be a very versatile, dual-function apparatus,” said
Groveton Fire Chief Glenn Hammond. “It will not only be used when responding to wildland fires but also
structure fires and traffic control.”
Groveton Fire Department’s coverage area includes the Davy Crockett Forest and ranch land.
“Groveton Fire Department’s commitment to protecting their community is demonstrated by the addition of a
more advanced apparatus,” said Texas A&M Forest Service Regional Fire Coordinator Ricky Holbrook. “The
400-gallon water tank and 10-gallon foam tank, along with the bumper nozzles, will help increase the
department’s capacity for a fast knockdown of fires.”
The Fire Department has been serving their rural community since 1919. The 10 volunteers provide fire service
to 2,000 residents in their 156 square mile area.
“At times, volunteer fire departments can’t always be manned with a full staff, so having the capability to start
fighting a fire with just a couple of volunteers is beneficial, this truck allows that,” said Hammond.
The department is grateful for the grant programs that are made available to help keep volunteer fire
departments more current with equipment and training.
Volunteer Fire Departments play a vital role in the protection of the rural areas of Texas. They are the first line
of defense against wildland fires that threaten homes and forests. The Groveton FD also planted a tree as a symbol
of continued partnership with those who help to protect forests and related natural resources against wildland
fires.
Texas A&M Forest Service is committed to protecting lives and property through the Rural Volunteer Fire
Department Assistance Program, a cost-share program funded by Texas State Legislature and administered by
Texas A&M Forest Service. This program provides funding to rural volunteer fire departments for the
acquisition of firefighting vehicles, fire and rescue equipment, protective clothing, dry-hydrants, computer
systems and firefighter training.
For more information on programs offered by Texas A&M Forest Service, please visit http://texasfd.com.