MARFA, Texas — The Marfa Volunteer Fire Department will now protect their community and sprawling ranch country with a new slip-on unit
A $15,900 grant from Texas A&M Forest Service’s Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program enabled the
department to have a newer, larger unit that is equipped with foam capabilities, which helps to quickly suppress flames
and prevent re-ignition.
. Marfa VFD’s Fire Chief Gary Mitschke is appreciative of the department’s improved capabilities.
“The new unit has a 600-gallon tank that will enable us to use a lower volume of water and reserve the available
resources that we have in our area,” said Chief Mitschke. “This new slip-on unit will help us to be better prepared for
future fire seasons.
Marfa VFD’s rural service area covers about 2,600 square miles and has a population of approximately 3,500. Currently,
the department has 18 active volunteers and are actively looking for recruits willing and ready to train in proper
firefighting techniques.
“Texas A&M Forest Service is our partner in fire protection. The agency has helped us in a variety of ways, to include
grants for equipment and training, as well as, support on wildfires. The TFS Task Forces are lifesavers on the scene of
wildfires,” said Mitschke.
Volunteer firefighters operate 85 percent of the fire departments in Texas. This year, TFS will pass approximately
$24.3 million along to VFDs across the state. The grants aid them in purchasing equipment and obtaining vital firefighter
training, giving them greater capabilities to protect life and property in their communities.
To learn more about this program, visit http://texasfd.com.