Shamrock Shores Volunteer Fire Department purchased a 2019 tender/pumper thanks to a cost share grant through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program administered by Texas A&M Forest Service.
Regional Fire Coordinator Ricky Holbrook, and local Texas A&M Forest Service staff presented a big check in recognition of the Department accepting the grant award and also planted a Shumard Oak tree at the courthouse, as a symbol of partnerships with those who share in helping to protect forests and related natural resources against wildland fire. Also present were County Judge Daryl Melton, County Commissioner Precinct 4 Bubba Lowe, Countywide Secretary/Six Mile VFD Chris Johnston, Marie Nelson and officers of the Shamrock Shores Volunteer Fire Department.
Volunteer fire departments play a vital role in the protection of the rural areas of Texas. They are the first responders when wildland fires threaten homes, forests and related natural resources.
“Our department serves a remote area with only two fire plugs in the 97-square-mile service area,” said Fire Chief Mike Pennington. “We were hauling water in a brush truck, so having 2,000 gallons of water available with the potential to fill a drop tank the same size and draft water from a lake, creek or pool helps to increase our capacity for a quicker knock-down of a fire.”
“The grant programs administered by Texas A&M Forest Service are very beneficial to small rural volunteer fire departments,” said Pennington. “Having an up-to-date apparatus encourages conviction and pride in the department. We appreciate having this new addition to help strengthen our firefighting power.”
Shamrock Shores Volunteer Fire Department has been serving their area since 1972 and has open enrollment for new volunteers.
“We welcome new volunteers,” said Pennington. “Firefighters are always welcome but we also need auxiliary volunteers. One of our most faithful members is “Little Grannie” Marie Nelson, who is 82 years old and loved by the whole community. Her dedication and assistance with our fundraisers is indispensable.”
Anyone wishing to volunteer may pick up an application at the department’s monthly meeting held the third Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. at the fire station, 125 Shamrock Drive, in Milam.
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.