Fire Departments

A FY2025 annual report for the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Insurance Program.

A summary of the TIFMAS Grant Assistance Program Funding for the fiscal year of 2026.

A summary of the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program Meeting 1 Funding FY2026.

An annual report for the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program FY2025.

An application for fire department assistance.

The Federal Excess Personal Property (FEPP) pickup/removal request form.

The FEPP briefing paper for compliance standards.

A summary of the capacity building efforts through the year of 2025.

Guidelines for training tuition in firefighter training.

Guidelines for the TIFMAS Apparatus Rating.

A description of the burn ban flag and how to acquire one.

Texas A&M Forest Service approved an additional $17.6 million in funding to award 687 fire and rescue equipment grants and 66 dry hydrant grants to Texas volunteer fire departments today.

Summary of the second round of equipment grants for Fiscal Year 2026, granted on December 5, 2025. Approximately $17.6 million in grants was awarded to Texas volunteer fire departments.

After devastating flooding that struck Central Texas this summer, three Texas volunteer fire departments received donations of essential emergency response equipment through Texas A&M Forest Service’s Helping Hands Program.

Thanks to a historic investment by the 89th Texas Legislature, Texas A&M Forest Service approved $164 million in funding to award 558 fire trucks and 321 slip-on units to Texas volunteer fire departments through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program today. The Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program was established by Texas House Bill […]

The 77th Texas Legislature passed House Bill 2604 in 2001, establishing the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. The program assists volunteer fire departments with the purchase of equipment and training. The Texas A&M Forest Service conducted the first Funding Meeting for Fiscal Year 2026 on Oct. 14, 2025. During this meeting, approximately $164 million […]

More than 200 emergency responders attended the 26th annual East Texas Wildfire and Incident Management Academy at Angelina College in Lufkin May 13-21, 2025, to grow their knowledge, skills and interagency coordination for combating wildfires and managing common complex, large-scale Texas disasters. The East Texas Interagency Wildfire and Incident Management Academy is held annually in […]

On March 5, 2025, Texas A&M Forest Service held the second of three funding meetings of fiscal year 2025 for the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program, awarding 94 grants totaling $2.1 million.      Grants proposed at this meeting will assist VFDs across Texas in purchasing equipment such as dry hydrants, fire and rescue equipment, personal […]

The Wildland Firefighting Terminology Glossary

An application for the Volunteer Recruitment Resources Assistance Grant.

Through the VFD Motor Vehicle Self-Insurance Program, we provide vehicle liability insurance at a greatly reduced cost of $75 per vehicle per year. Coverage Limits of insurance Bodily injury $100,000 per person Total bodily injury $300,000 per occurrence Property damage $100,000 per occurrence Recognized, non-profit VFDs operated by its members are eligible. Any part-paid/part-volunteer fire […]

Wildfire and incident response training As the official signatory of the National Wildfire Coordinating Group (NWCG) for the State of Texas, we are committed to ensuring that wildfire and incident response training delivered in the state meets national standards.   Our responsibility is to ensure that individuals receive qualifications that reflect their knowledge and experience. Enabling […]

The U.S. Department of Defense Firefighter Property Program provides excess military property to emergency service providers, with ownership of the equipment passed from the federal government to the recipient. Fire departments and other emergency response providers in the state of Texas may apply for assistance under the FFP Program. Departments that received a 2.5-ton cargo, […]

The Federal Excess Personal Property Program (FEPP) provides excess military property to emergency service providers on loan from the federal government. While on loan, the fire department/emergency response cooperator is responsible for the maintenance of the property as long as it is in their possession. Once returned, the property is reissued or disposed of. Please […]

The Helping Hands Program allows donations of new and gently-used fire and rescue equipment, fire trucks, and other items to be made available to fire departments throughout the state, while providing liability relief to the donor. The program routinely receives donations of structural gear, fire hoses, nozzles, rescue tools, ladders, ventilation fans, and other items […]

We identify a Primary 911 Protection Area as a designated area of land, within the state of Texas and identified by the county, that a singular recognized fire department responds to when toned out or dispatched to an incident. If your fire department has recently had a change to the square mileage of its Primary […]

All volunteer fire departments applying for state grants that include matching federal funds needs to certify that they have adopted the National Incident Management System.  The Texas Division of Emergency Management is the designated repository for NIMS Adoption and Compliance certification records.  Requirements for NIMS adoption TDEM requires that a VFD submit ONE of the […]

The Texas Intrastate Fire Mutual Aid System (TIFMAS) Grant Assistance Program provides reimbursement grants to career fire departments and combination fire departments with 21 or more paid members. The program provides firefighting apparatus and training tuition reimbursement grants. Those eligible include: Paid members are calculated based on the number of full-time paid and part-paid positions. […]

The Rural VFD Insurance Program is a grant program designed to reimburse eligible fire departments for firefighter insurance from private insurance companies. Eligible coverage includes any combination of compensation insurance (workers’ compensation, AD&D, group term life, etc.). The program currently reimburses 100% of the actual cost of eligible insurance coverage, up to a maximum of […]

The Rural VFD Assistance Program provides funding to VFDs for the acquisition of firefighting vehicles, fire and rescue equipment, protective clothing, dry-hydrants, and firefighter training. The program also provides grants for volunteer recruitment resources and emergency assistance following catastrophic events and declared states of disaster. Recognized, non-profit volunteer fire departments operated by its members are […]

The Texas Wildfire Risk Assessment Portal, TxWRAP, shows risk in your area and offers resources for wildfire risk.

SEAT FAQ

The Texas Local Government law allowing counties to restrict outside burning

Information sheet on mowing for site preparation

On Tuesday, April 2, Texas A&M Forest Service held the second of three funding meetings of fiscal year 2024 for the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program, awarding 74 grants totaling approximately $1.3 million.

Texas A&M Forest Service awards $15.7 million in grants to volunteer fire departments COLLEGE STATION, Texas – Texas A&M Forest Service awarded 260 rural volunteer fire departments with more than $15.7 million in assistance grants last week through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistant Grant Program.

October 4, 2023 25th Annual Wildfire Academy begins this week at Camp Swift BASTROP, Texas – The 25th annual Capital Area Interagency Wildfire and Incident Management Academy (CAIWA) begins at the Camp Swift National Guard Facility in Bastrop, Texas this week. The academy will take place Oct 6-18, 2022.

The Galena Park Fire Department in Harris County received a $17,160grant through the Texas A&M Forest Service Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. Thegrant was used to purchase tools to be used at emergency scenes where extrication is needed. The new equipment is portable and allows the department to better access people trapped in vehicleaccidents. […]

The Steele Creek Acres Volunteer Fire Department in Bosque County received a$16,371 grant through the Texas A&M Forest Service Rural Volunteer Fire Department AssistanceProgram. The grant was used to purchase fire and rescue equipment, including a thermal imaging camera,radios, a generator and a defibrillator. The equipment purchased through the grant will help firefighters work more […]

DIME BOX, Texas — The Dime Box Volunteer Fire Department of Lee County received a $110,000grant through the Texas A&M Forest Service Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program topurchase a small brush truck. The truck will be used to fight wildland fires as well as traffic control and general response. The truck isfully equipped to […]

LINDEN, Texas — The Linden Volunteer Fire Department in Cass County used a $240,000 grant fromTexas A&M Forest Service’s Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program to purchase a largebrush truck. The 2023 International chassis is equipped with a 600-gallon water tank, custom-built pump package,large storage boxes, winch, and extrication equipment. The truck will be used […]

REKLAW, Texas — The Reklaw Volunteer Fire Department in Cherokee County received a surplusmilitary truck through the Texas A&M Forest Service Department of Defense Firefighter PropertyProgram. The department also received a $20,000 grant through the Rural Volunteer Fire DepartmentAssistance Program to install a firefighting unit on the truck. The truck, a Stewart and Stevenson M1078, […]

The Holiday Lake Estates Volunteer Fire Department in Polk County used a $20,000 grant to equip a pickup with a firefighting apparatus that includes a water tank and foam unit.The grant was awarded through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program, which is administered by Texas A&M Forest Service. Chief Arthur West said the apparatus, […]

The Salt Creek Rural Volunteer Fire Department in Young County has added anew truck to its fleet after receiving a $110,000 grant through the Rural Volunteer Fire DepartmentAssistance Program administered by Texas A&M Forest Service. The truck, a 2023 Freightliner, replaces a truck that was manufactured in 1987 and marks a milestonefor the department in […]

PAINT ROCK, Texas — The Lake O.H. Ivie Volunteer Fire Department in northern Concho Countyused a $220,000 grant from the Texas A&M Forest Service Rural Volunteer Fire Department AssistanceProgram to purchase a truck for wildland firefighting. The 2023 Freightliner is equipped with a 1,250gallon water tank as well as a foam system. The primary functions […]

OYSTER CREEK, Texas — Oyster Creek Community Volunteer Fire Department received a $20,000grant through the Texas A&M Forest Service Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program topurchase a slip-on unit. A slip-on unit is a firefighting apparatus designed for the back of a truck that can be used duringwildland, structure, and automobile fires to supply water. […]

Ferris Fire Department received a $20,000 grant from Texas A&M Forest ServiceRural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. The grant was used to purchase an ArticCompressor that will be used to fill Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) bottles. The department has struggled with the lag time between SCBA bottle refills and relied on other fire departments as […]

The Giddings Volunteer Fire Department used a $8,825 grant from Texas A&MForest Service’s Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program to purchase a forcible-entrytraining aid. The training prop will be used to teach department members techniques for gaining access to structuresduring emergencies. Chief Charlie Brown said the department will begin training on the device nextweek. The […]

FLATONIA, Texas — Flatonia Fire and Rescue of Fayette County received a surplus military truckthrough the Department of Defense Firefighter Property Program. It also received a $20,000 grant thatallowed it to purchase a 500-gallon slip-on unit. The truck will be used as a brush truck and wildland firefighting vehicle with off-road capability. Itshigh clearance will […]

HENDERSON, Texas — The Carlisle Volunteer Fire Department received a surplus military truckthrough the Department of Defense Firefighter Property Program. This is one of the hundreds of trucksthat have been transferred at no cost to Texas volunteer fire departments. The department also received a$20,000 grant for a slip-on unit through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department […]

HUNTSVILLE, Texas — The Riverside Volunteer Fire Department of Walker County received a$100,000 grant through the Texas A&M Forest Service Rural Volunteer Fire Department AssistanceProgram to purchase a small brush truck. The truck will be used to fight wildland fires and respond to water rescues. The truck is outfitted withfoam and a skid unit, fully […]

Liberty County Emergency Services District (ESD) No. 7 received a grant for$10,000 to purchase a forcible entry training aid. Funding was provided by the Texas A&M ForestService Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. The training aid will be used to teach forcible-entry techniques, making the department faster and moreproficient in gaining access to structure during […]

Hardin County Emergency Services District (ESD) No. 5 received a $10,000 grant that allowed for the purchase of a Dell computer, training videos and mannequin. The training aidsgrant was provided by the Texas A&M Forest Service Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. The department responds to numerous medical calls and the training aids will be […]

ABBOTT, Texas — The Abbott Volunteer Fire Department of Hill County received a $20,000 grant through the Texas A&M Forest Service Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program to install a slip-on unit on a surplus military vehicle, that was provided through the Department of Defense Firefighter Property Program. This truck is one of hundreds that […]

Texas A&M Forest Service is offering new Volunteer Recruitment Resources grants designed to help Texas volunteer fire departments strengthen their workforce and enhance community fire protection.

RICHMOND, Texas — Pecan Grove Volunteer Fire Department received a surplus military truck through the Texas A&M Forest Service Department of Defense Firefighter Property Program. The department also received a $20,000 grant through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program to install a slip-on unit to the truck. The truck will be used as a […]

The Eastside Volunteer Fire Department of Rusk County received a$18,000 grant through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. This grant was used topurchase fire and rescue equipment. The departments new rescue tool kit will help stabilize vehicles when extrication is needed. The departments previous set will still be used, but the new one will […]

MARION, Texas — West Mountain Volunteer Fire Department (Upshur County) donated two Type IIfire engines to Gray Volunteer Fire Department (Marion County) in a direct donation through the TexasA&M Forest Service’s Helping Hands program. Winter Storm Uri in 2021 caused catastrophic freeze damage to Gray Volunteer Fire Department’s fireengines. Because of an annual operating budget […]

HART, Texas — The Hart Volunteer Fire Department of Castro County received a $220,000 grant from the Texas A&M Forest Service Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program to purchase a large brush truck. The 2022 Freightliner has a 1,500-gallon tank. The primary function of the brush truck is to fight brush fires and provide mutual […]

WOODSON, Texas — The Woodson Volunteer Fire Department received a surplus military vehicle, provided by the Texas A&M Forest Service through the Department of Defense Fire Firefighter Property Program. The department also received a $20,000 grant through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program to install a slip-on unit to the truck.  The truck has […]

Since Jan. 1, firefighters with Texas A&M Forest Service and local fire departments saved 8,056 homes in the path of wildfire. Many of those homes had the first layers of protection — defensible space and fire-resistant construction materials — before fire crews arrived.

Melissa Volunteer Fire Department in Collin County received a $10,000 grant topurchase a forcible entry training aid. The training aid will allow firefighters to practice emergency entries. The department would like to thank Texas A&M Forest Service for providing the grant and allowing thedepartment to increase its capabilities. As a member agency of the Texas […]

Austonio Volunteer Fire Department in Houston County received a $19,000grant for new fire and rescue equipment. The department purchased three air packs and face masks, thatwill replace old equipment. The department is making strides in protecting its firefighters. “The new equipment is safer and willmake our firefighters lives easier. They can trust the equipment now, […]

Covington Volunteer Fire Department of Hill County, received an $18,000grant through the Texas A&M Forest Service Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. Thegrant was used to purchase rescue tools. The cutter and spreader the department bought will be used at emergency scenes where extrication isneeded. The new equipment replaces older extrication equipment. This will allow […]

Oyster Creek Community Volunteer Fire Department received a $50,000grant to purchase a small truck chassis. This grant was made possible through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. The truck will be used primarily as a brush truck to improve the department’s capabilities during grassfires. The truck will also be used to pull the department’s […]

China Spring Volunteer Fire Department received a grant through the Texas A&M Forest Service Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. The $220,000 grant was used to purchase a tender.

Kaufman Volunteer Fire Department has purchased a training door prop througha grant from the Texas A&M Forest Service Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. The department will use the training door prop to practice forcible entry scenarios. Using this prop willhelp emergency responders enter emergency situations faster and more effectively. The Kaufman Volunteer Fire Department […]

West Lake Limestone Volunteer Fire Department received a grant through theTexas A&M Forest Service Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program to purchase trainingaids. The $10,000 grant aided in the purchase of an Intelligent Training System Base Unit andcontroller. The equipment will be used to provide live fire training to members of the department. It will […]

FRED, Texas — Fred Volunteer Fire Department received an $18,000 grant from the Rural VolunteerAssistance Program to purchase a skid unit for a small brush truck. The skid unit was placed on the back of a small brush truck the department already owned. With the new addition, the department has a reliable small brush truck […]

Cason Volunteer Fire Department of Morris County received a $110,000grant to purchase a large truck chassis and slip-on unit to better serve its community. The grant wasmade possible through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. The unit will be used for quick attacks of grass fires and structure fires. It will also be used […]

The Marlin Volunteer Fire Department has purchased a specialized washingmachine that is designed to remove carcinogens and other contaminants from personal protectiveequipment worn by firefighters. The purchase was made possible with a $20,000 grant from the RuralVolunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. The department also used the grant to purchase dual purpose gear. In recent years, […]

The 24th annual Capital Area Interagency Wildfire and Incident Management Academy (CAIWA) begins at the Camp Swift National Guard Facility in Bastrop, Texas this week.

Texas A&M Forest Service hosted the second annual Sisters in Fire event at the city of Abilene Fire Department Training Facility on Oct. 1.

CROCKETT, Texas — The Crockett Fire Department received a surplus military vehicle that wasprovided through the Department of Defense Firefighter Property Program. It also received a $20,000grant through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program to install a slip-on unit on thetruck. The truck has been painted nonmilitary colors, which is a stipulation of receiving […]

Last week, a Texas A&M Forest wildfire handcrew was mobilized to the Cedar Creek Fire in Oregon.

Livingston Volunteer Fire Department received a $20,000 grant to purchasenew fire/rescue equipment through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance. This grant was usedto purchase a spreader, cutter and ram for use in vehicle extrications and in forcible entry at emergencyscenes. The department would like to thank the Texas A&M Forest Service for the grant that […]

The Punkin-Evergreen Volunteer Fire Department received a forcible entrysimulator for training purposes. The simulator was made possible through a grant from the Texas A&MForest Service. The simulator will allow firefighters to practice forcible entry scenarios. The simulator has already beenused several times. Punkin-Evergreen VFD needs new members to help in all aspects of the department. […]

PINELAND, Texas — Pineland Volunteer Fire Department received a $20,000 grant through the RuralVolunteer Fire Department Assistance Program to install a slip-on unit on a surplus military vehicle, thatwas provided through the Department of Defense Firefighter Property Program. The truck has been painted nonmilitary colors, which was a stipulation of receiving the truck, and it […]

Coupland Volunteer Fire Department received a grant of over $16,000 to buynew fire and rescue equipment. The grant was made possible through Texas A&M Forest Service’sRural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. The cutter and spreader that the department purchased can be used to rescue and extricate victims ofvehicle crashes and assist in making forcible entry […]

ALBANY, Texas — The Albany Volunteer Fire Department received a grant to purchase a slip-on unitthat was installed on a surplus military truck. The $15,800 grant was made possible through the RuralVolunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. The slip-on unit will be used in the suppression of wildfires, and it carries a larger amount of water […]

Sherwood Shores Volunteer Fire Department received a $20,000 grantthrough the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. The grant allowed the department tobuy tools used to rescue and extricate victims of vehicle crashes and assist in making forcible entry atemergency scenes. The tools are battery powered, making them easier for fire crews to manage without worrying […]

Manvel Volunteer Fire Department has received a new specialized washer that isdesigned to remove carcinogens and other contaminants from personal protective equipment worn byfirefighters. This washer was made possible with a $13,500 grant from the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. In recent years, fire agencies have become increasingly aware of the hazards associated with […]

The Crims Chapel Volunteer Fire Department has purchased a new cutter andspreader through a grant from the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. The rescue equipment will be used in vehicle extrication and general rescues. The tools will be placed on the department’s primary rescue unit, allowing the older set to be placed onanother unit. […]

A Large Truck Chassis and slip-on unit have been awarded to the ColemanVolunteer Fire Department through a grant from the Texas A&M Forest Service Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. With the grant, the department has assembled a new fire truck. The truck will help in the suppression ofwildfires and will increase the response capabilities […]

TRENT, Texas — Trent Volunteer Fire Department purchased a small brush truck through the RuralVolunteer Fire Department Grant Assistance Program. The small brush truck will aid in brush and grass fires, as well as in wrecks and structural fires. It isequipped with a 400-gallon water tank and can hold 10 gallons of foam. The new […]

The Log Cabin Volunteer Fire Department of Henderson County received a new tender through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. The new truck is a replacement for a 1989 model tanker that will be sold to another department.

The Haskell Fire Department received a new extrication cutter and spreaderthrough the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Grant Assistance Program. These tools are used to rescue and extricate victims of vehicle crashes and assist in making forcibleentry at emergency scenes. The department’s previous extrication cutter and spreader were no longeroperational, significantly limiting its their response capacity. […]

The Emory Volunteer Fire Department in Rains County has purchased a new tender through the Texas A&M Rural Volunteer Fire Department Grant Assistance Program. The tender is equipped with a 1,500-gallon tank and will be used to assist in fires where there are no fire hydrants or as a standalone engine for structure fires. Around […]

DIANA, Texas — Diana Volunteer Fire Department purchased a new vehicle with funds from the RuralVolunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. The vehicle will primarily be used in brush, grass, and wildland fires. The vehicle will allow firefightersthe ability to reach areas that might not be accessible by other vehicles. The Ford F350 pickup It isalso […]

Orange County Emergency Services District #1 recently received extrication tools fundedthrough a grant from Texas A&M Forest Service’s Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. These tools, known as the Jaws of Life, will be used to extricate people trapped in vehicle crashes. The toolsare battery powered, making them easier for fire crews to manage without […]

The Beach City Volunteer Fire Department used a $20,000 grant from the RuralVolunteer Fire Departments Assistance Program to purchase much-needed fire/rescue equipment such asthermal imaging cameras, rescue tools and other firefighting accessories. The equipment will help protect firefighters, assist with extrications and expand capabilities for thedepartment and other firefighting agencies in Chambers County. Fire Chief […]

CELESTE, Texas — The Celeste Volunteer Fire Department in Hunt County recently received a new slipon unit through a grant from the Texas A&M Forest Service Rural Volunteer Fire Department AssistanceProgram. A slip-on unit is a firefighting apparatus designed for the back of a truck. It is used during wildland,structure and automobile fires as a […]

There is potential for large wildfires to occur today that may outpace firefighters’ suppression efforts in areas near Childress, Lubbock, Abilene, Mineral Wells, Brownwood, Midland, San Angelo, Fredericksburg, Del Rio, Laredo and Brownsville.

HILLTOP LAKES, Texas — Hilltop Lakes Volunteer Fire Department, Inc. recently received a smallbrush truck cost-share grant through Texas A&M Forest Service. Members of the VFD said that thisnew addition to their department will increase their fire suppression capabilities, enabling them to have amore powerful response for their community. A big check presentation was held […]

Wildfire potential increases today for large, difficult to control wildfires to occur in Southwest Texas, specifically for areas near Del Rio, San Angelo, San Antonio and Laredo.

Increased wildfire activity will be supported Friday through Sunday by warm and dry conditions and critically dry vegetation in the Western Plains, Hill Country and Cross Timbers.

ROCKDALE, Texas – Minerva Volunteer Fire Department increased their fleet capacity by adding an excessmilitary truck and slip-on unit. The truck is provided through the Department of Defense Firefighter PropertyProgram and the slip-on unit through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. “This new addition will increase our wildland firefighting power and our ability for […]

MCGREGOR, Texas – Texas A&M Forest Service awarded McGregor Volunteer Fire Department an excessmilitary truck through the Department of Defense Firefighter Property Program. The truck will help increase the department’s firefighting capacity and will be a dual-purpose apparatus serving wildland firefighting and high-water rescues. Accompanying the truck, McGregor VFD also received a $20,000 grant through […]

The Texas A&M Forest Service Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Programawarded a $10,000 grant to the Weston Volunteer Fire Department to help them purchase trainingequipment. The department purchased wildland training shelters, blackout masks, blast masks, a smoke machine andforcible entry door, all to aid in training. Wildland training shelters are a last resort for firefighters […]

A Southern Plains Wildfire Outbreak occurred across the panhandle of Texas, Oklahoma and Kansas on Wednesday.

ROCKDALE, Texas –- Rockdale Volunteer Fire Department converted an excess military tactical vehicle into a firefighting machine. The large quantity of water that it will carry will help the department gain quick control of a fire. The military vehicle was awarded through the Department of Defense Firefighter Property Program. The department also accepted a $20,000 […]

VICTORIA, Texas –- The Raisin Volunteer Fire Department converted an excess military truck into a firefightingmachine with the help of a $20,000 grant. The grant is through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department AssistanceProgram, which was used to purchase a new slip-on unit. The truck is received through the DoD Firefighter Property Program, both programs are […]

COVINGTON, Texas — The Covington Volunteer Fire Department replaced an older slip-on unit thanks to a$20,000 cost share grant through the Texas A&M Forest Service Rural Volunteer Fire DepartmentAssistance Program. “Our department is glad to have this new addition to replace a unit that is over 10 years old and was startingto have mechanical issues,” […]

HORSESHOE BAY, Texas –- Sandy Harbor Volunteer Fire Department added a 2021 Dodge brush truck to theirfleet thanks to a $100,000 cost share grant through the Texas A&M Forest Service Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. “The main purpose of this truck will be as a light brush truck used in fast response to brush/grass […]

Beasley Fire Department added a 2022 tanker to their fleet thanks to a $220,000 grant through the Texas A&M Forest Service Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. The primary purpose of a tanker is to keep a supply of water available to firefighters, aiding in fire suppression. “This 3,000-gallon tanker will bring greater capabilities by […]

CHICO, Texas – Wise County Sand Flat Fire Department now has immediate access to 800 gallons of waterthanks to a $200,000 cost share grant through the Texas A&M Forest Service Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. “The primary mission of this new truck will be to extinguish brush fires as well as shuttle water to […]

REAGAN, Texas –- Reagan Volunteer Fire Department received a $70,000 grant from the Texas A&MForest Service Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. Thanks to this cost-share grant, the department now has a rugged firefighting machine. “We appreciate having the opportunity to add a 2021 apparatus to our fleet,” said Reagan VFD Fire ChiefRonnie Brown. “About […]

BLOOMBURG, Texas –- As a first line of defense against wildland fires, volunteer fire departments play avital role in the protection of the rural areas of Texas. Cass County ESD #3 enhanced their fleet with aStewart Stevenson military truck thanks to the Department of Defense Firefighter Property Program that waslaunched in Texas in 2005 by […]

MARLIN, Texas – Marlin Volunteer Fire Department was first to be called out to what became the 96-acreRice Road fire. Their new excess military truck addition was instrumental in helping the department fight a sixhour long battle along with other area fire departments and Texas A&M Forest Service. “The Stewart Stevenson did very well in […]

Noonday Volunteer Fire Department increased the department’s rescue capacity byadding battery powered rescue tools to their cache. “Noonday VFD added two sets of extrication tools to their engines with a grant from the Texas A&M ForestService Rural VFD Assistance Program and another entity,” said Texas A&M Forest Service Regional FireCoordinator Josh Bardwell. “The VFD has […]

Lakeview Volunteer Fire Department received the first new addition to their fleet in twenty years thanks to a cost share grant through the Texas A&M Forest Service Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. “We are very pleased to receive a grant to help purchase a new 1,500-gallon water tender,” said Lakeview VFD Fire Chief Bob […]

HILLSBORO, Texas – Peoria Volunteer Fire Department acquired a 2022 brush truck thanks to a cost sharegrant through the Texas A&M Forest Service Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. Thetruck has an 800-gallon water tank and foam capability. “This new brush truck can not only shuttle a large quantity of water as a first-out truck […]

LOTT, Texas — The Lott City Fire Company added new water monitors to their brush truck and engine,doubling their options for fighting fire. The additions were purchased thanks to a cost-share grant through theTexas A&M Forest Service Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. A fixed water monitor is known by several names, deluge gun, fire […]

ARANSAS PASS, Texas –- The Aransas Pass Fire Department added an excess Stewart Stevenson military truck to their fleet, and it is uniquely dedicated to the 761st United States Army Battalion that served under General GeorgePatton during World War II. The Battalion became known for their bravery, commitment and distinguished combatrecord. “Our department dedicates our […]

Five Star Volunteer Fire Department added a 2022 Kenworth pumper/tanker that will be the first out apparatus for all Titus County structure fires. The new addition was made possible with a cost share grant received from the Texas A&M Forest Service Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. “This new 2,000-gallon water pumper/tanker will help our […]

KEMPNER, Texas –- Kempner Volunteer Fire Department converted a Stewart Stevenson 5-ton excess military truckinto a large brush truck. The truck was received from Texas A&M Forest Service through the Department of DefenseFirefighter Property Program. Upon acceptance of the truck, the department met the conversion challenge by doing the work in house while keepingin mind […]

The Iowa Colony Volunteer Fire Department added a new fire truck to their fleet thanks to a cost share grant from Texas A&M Forest Service through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. It has a 1,000-gallon water tank, foam capability and is now in service. “Our department’s planning committee spent many hours in designing […]

Purley Volunteer Fire Department received a $220,000 cost share grant through the Texas A&M Forest Service Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program to help purchase a 2021 Kenworth pumper/tender with a 2,000-gallon water tank and a 2,000-gallon portable drop tank. “This pumper will be taking the place of an older apparatus in our fleet with […]

Up-to-date equipment can improve safety procedures in times of response while protectingfirefighters and public a like. West Mountain Volunteer Fire Department received a $19,800 grant to help purchaseseveral pieces of fire/rescue equipment. “One of our major upgrades is six new radios with 25-channel frequencies,” said West Mountain VFD Fire ChiefSteve Bayne. “Communication is the key […]

COLEMAN, Texas –- The Glen Cove Volunteer Fire Department, converted a 2.5-ton excess military StewartStevenson into a firefighting machine with a 500-gallon water tank and foam capability. The truck wasawarded through the Department of Defense Firefighter Property Program, and the slip-on unit waspurchased with a grant through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program, both […]

Brownsboro Volunteer Fire Department received two grants totaling $67,800through the Texas A&M Forest Service Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. The grantshelped the department purchase a truck chassis and a slip-on unit which were utilized to build a new brushtruck. “This 2020 brush truck is replacing a 2006 truck that had a smaller water tank […]

RIO BRAVO, Texas –- Rio Bravo Volunteer Fire Department received a cost-share grant to help purchase a brush truck through the Texas A&M Forest Service Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. The new brush truck has a 500-gallon water tank and foam capability. “Our department is very pleased to have this brush truck in our […]

Noonday Volunteer Fire Department accepted delivery of a new pumper/water tender. This new addition to their fleet was made possible thanks to a cost share grant from Texas A&M Forest Service through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. “Noonday Volunteer Fire Department’s new pumper-tender is a versatile apparatus that will allow the firefighters to […]

HUGHES SPRINGS, Texas – Hughes Springs Volunteer Fire Department replaced a 1985 tanker with anexcess military Stewart Stevenson. Upon accepting the truck, the department had to meet certain obligationswithin 180 days. These obligations included painting it a nonmilitary color and converting it into an emergencyresponse vehicle able to perform an emergency response function. The truck […]

PAYNE SPRINGS, Texas –- Increasing firefighting capacity can sometimes be a matter of having the rightequipment. Payne Springs Volunteer Fire Department added a new brush truck to their fleet to help with firesuppression in their growing wildland interface thanks to a grant through the Rural Volunteer Fire DepartmentAssistance Program. “We replaced a 2009 brush truck […]

NACOGDOCHES, Texas –- Loco Valley Volunteer Fire Department acquired a new 2020 brush truck thanks to a$100,000 cost share grant through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. “Our new F550 brush truck has four-wheel-drive, a 300-gallon water tank, foam capability, and front bumper sprayersmaking it useful when responding to wildland and structure fires,” said […]

Bowman Community Volunteer Fire Department received a $220,000 cost share grant to help purchase a 2021 Kenworth water tender with updates that will revolutionize and strengthen their firefighting fleet. “This tender is replacing two apparatus in the department’s fleet, a 1995 tender that also had a 3,000-gallon water tank but no drop tank and an […]

GARRISON, Texas — Garrison Volunteer Fire Department shares hope and support for the community byliterally showing their colors when converting an excess 6×6 military truck. The truck was received through theDepartment of Defense Firefighter Property Program and the slip-on unit is through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program, both administered by Texas A&M Forest […]

Apple Springs Volunteer Fire Department received a $9,700 grant through theRural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program to help purchase a multi force training door. “We are pleased to have received a training aid grant to help purchase a piece of equipment that is a first forTrinity County,” said Apple Springs VFD President Gary Mathison. “It […]

HUNTSVILLE, Texas –- Crabbs Prairie Volunteer Fire Department welcomes a new 2021 Ford F550 brush truckthanks to a $118,000 cost share grant through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. Thetruck will be used to fight grass and wildland fires, manage traffic control after a vehicle accident, and carrymedical equipment. “The addition of this new […]

Volunteer Fire Departments often receive training to learn current firefighter responsestrategies. Hubbard VFD has participated in various training schools to further their knowledge of firefightingand increase awareness of firefighter safety. Having the right equipment is another aspect of a successfulresponse. The department received an equipment cost share grant through the Rural Volunteer Fire DepartmentAssistance Program […]

Cat Spring Volunteer Fire Department added a 2021 Freightliner water tender to their fleet thanks to a cost share grant through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program and support from their community. “The new water tender is a vital addition and will fill a key role in our operation while giving support to an […]

MORAN, Texas –The City of Moran Volunteer Fire Department converted a 2.5-ton Stewart Stevenson into afirefighting machine. The truck is awarded through the Department of Defense Firefighter Property Programwith a $20,000 grant for a slip-on unit being awarded through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department AssistanceProgram both programs are administered by the Texas A&M Forest Service. […]

MATAGORDA, Texas –- Matagorda Volunteer Fire Department received a cost share grant through the RuralVolunteer Fire Department Assistance Program to help purchase a 2020 Ram 3500 truck chassis. Local supportfrom the community and County Commissioner Kent Pollard helped them meet their cost share portion andadd a slip-on unit to the chassis, completing the build-out of […]

Thanks to community support and a cost share grant through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program, Friberg-Cooper Volunteer Fire Department added a new water tender to their fleet. “Our department did not have a water tender and had to depend on neighboring fire departments to shuttle water while on fire response,” said Friberg-Cooper VFD […]

Texas A&M Forest Service has opened a single engine air tanker base in Alpine, Texas to assist with wildfire response across the state.

ROCHELLE, Texas – Placid Community Volunteer Fire Department added a 2021 International brush truck to their fleet, with its primary mission being large fires and rescue. The truck can carry 1,000 gallons of water, hasdrafting capabilities,s and responds well as a fast attack apparatus. “There isn’t access to water in our county, so having the […]

MELVIN, Texas –- Melvin Volunteer Fire Department replaced a 35-year-old truck with a new 2020 custombuilt a brush truck thanks to local support and a cost-share grant through the Rural Volunteer Fire DepartmentAssistance Program. “This truck will be one of our urban interface apparatus,” said Melvin VFD President Ceth Holubec. “The truck is equipped with […]

WHITEFACE, Texas – Whiteface Volunteer Fire Department purchased a new brush truck with the help of acost-share grant through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program administered by Texas A&MForest Service. The new truck is replacing a 1994 model that had less response capability. “We made several calls with this new truck and even responded […]

Ector Volunteer Fire Department added a new brush truck thanks to a cost share grant through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program administered by Texas A&M Forest Service. “This truck will be designated as the replacement for an apparatus we used for brush fires and rescue,” said Ector VFD Fire Chief James Cobb. “It […]

SWEETWATER, Texas –- Lake Sweetwater Volunteer Fire Department received a $99,000 cost share grant thathelped purchase a new brush truck with a compressed air foam system (CAFS). It replaces a 1966 truck and aWorld War II military trucks, both were inoperable. The grant was received through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program administered by […]

Groesbeck Volunteer Fire Department accepted a cost share grant through the RuralVolunteer Fire Department Assistance Program to help purchase lifesaving rescue equipment. “Our department is very pleased to replace our more cumbersome rescue equipment with cutting-edge tools,” said Groesbeck VFD Fire Chief Pat Samuels. The department received a battery-operated cutter and spreader which are compact […]

Locust Community Volunteer Fire Department recently added a 3,000-gallon water tanker to their fleet thanks to a cost share grant through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program administered by Texas A&M Forest Service. “The focus for this 2021 truck is carrying water to fight fires,” said Locust VFD Fire Chief Timothy Thomas. “It will […]

THORNTON, Texas — Thornton Volunteer Fire Department received a cost share grant through the RuralVolunteer Fire Department Assistance Program administered by Texas A&M Forest Service. The grant helpedto purchase a slip-on unit that was installed onto a truck that the department owned. “We have a lot of grass fires because our area is rural with […]

Lacy Lakeview Fire Department accepted a $43,400 cost share grant to helppurchase a chassis that the department will be transforming into a brush truck. The grant was through the RuralVolunteer Fire Department Assistance Program administered by Texas A&M Forest Service. “When complete this chassis will be a first out truck,” said Lacy Lakeview FD Chief […]

Pottsboro Fire Department acquired a new 2021 Freightliner pumper/tender thanks to a $200,000 cost share grant through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. A tender is a firefighting apparatus that transports water from a source to a fire scene. It has the capacity to carry 1,500 gallons of water and has a 10-inch dump […]

BRENHAM, Texas – Prairie Hill – Rocky Hill Volunteer Fire Department accepted an excess StewartStevenson military truck through the Department of Defense Firefighter Property Program. They also received a$20,000 grant through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. The department coupled thegrant with community support to purchase a slip-on unit with a 400-gallon water tank […]

DIKE, Texas -– Dike Volunteer Fire Department replaced a 1976 brush truck with a new custom-build fireapparatus thanks to a cost-share grant through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. The truck has a 300-gallon water tank and a lot of storage area for wildland tools. “The primary mission of this new truck will be […]

West Volunteer Fire Department accepted a $9,000 cost share grant to help purchase aspecialized washer-extractor that will help maintain their Personal Protective Gear (PPE) or turnout gear. Thegrant was awarded through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program administered by TexasA&M Forest Service. Firefighters put their own safety on the line all the time to […]

Lampasas Volunteer Fire Department added a forcible entry door to their training toolsthanks to a grant through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. “This new training aid will allow our department to simulate any type of door,” said Lampasas VFD Fire ChiefJeff Smith. “The difficulty of the entry can be adjusted for the type […]

BURTON, Texas – Burton Volunteer Fire Department converted a 2.5-ton military Stewart Stevenson truckinto a firefighting apparatus. The department also accepted a slip-on unit grant through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program to help with the conversion. The truck is an excess military vehicle from the Department of Defense Firefighter Property Program (DOD FFP). […]

Harmony Consolidated Volunteer Fire Department has added firefighting scenario props to their training program to prepare firefighters for whatever their next call requires. The department acquired a forcible entry door and a training mannequin using a cost share grant through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program administered by Texas A&M Forest Service. “The new […]

Cisco Volunteer Fire Department accepted a cost share grant to help purchase new extrication tools which include a cutter and spreader and are more commonly known as Jaws-of-life. The grant was through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program administered by Texas A&M Forest Service. “Our department replaced a set of 1988 Hurst rescue tools […]

DEVINE, Texas – Devine Volunteer Fire Department converted an excess Stewart Stevenson into a firefighting machine thanks to a cost share grant that helped purchase a 400-gallon slip-on unit. The truck was awarded through the Department of Defense Firefighter Property Program (DoD FFP) and the slip-on grant was acquired through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department […]

LORENZO, Texas – Lorenzo Volunteer Fire Department accepted a $16,300 slip-on unit grant through theRural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program to help convert an excess military Stewart Stevenson. Thetruck was awarded through the Department of Defense Firefighter Property Program (DoD FFP). Bothprograms are administered by the Texas A&M Forest Service. “This Stewart Stevenson is replacing […]

GHOLSON, Texas –- The Gholson Volunteer Fire Department increased the effectiveness of their fleet by accepting and converting an excess military cargo truck. The truck was released to them through the Department of Defense Firefighter Property Program, and the conversion was completed thanks to a slip-on unit grant through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance […]

Morgan Volunteer Fire Department received a cost share grant through the Rural VolunteerFire Department Assistance Program administered by Texas A&M Forest Service. The grant was used topurchase much needed self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA). “The SCBA devices are essential for our volunteers and consist of an air tank, mask and respirator,” saidMorgan VFD Fire Chief Brian […]

MERTZON, Texas – Irion County (Mertzon Station) Volunteer Fire Department accepted an excess military Stewart Stevenson and a $20,000 grant. The grant helped with the addition of a slip-on unit that transformed the truck into a firefighting machine, increasing the capacity of the department’s fleet. The truck was received through the Department of Defense Federal […]

BIG SANDY, Texas –- Pleasant Grove Volunteer Fire Department added an excess Stewart Stevenson militarytruck named “Truck 20” to their fleet thanks to a truck award through the Department of Defense Fire FighterProperty Program and a slip-on unit grant through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Programboth administered by Texas A&M Forest Service. “Rural volunteer […]

The Hemphill and Six Mile Volunteer Fire Departments each received a $200,000 cost share grant through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program administered by Texas A&M Forest Service.

Ravenna Volunteer Fire Department now has a new 3,000-gallon water tender thanks to a cost share grant through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program administered by Texas A&M Forest Service. The tender also has a remote-controlled deck gun, back-up camera and can pump water from a pool or other water source. “This new addition […]

Shive Volunteer Fire Department purchased a 2021 International tender thanks to a Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program cost share grant administered through Texas A&M Forest Service. “This new tender can carry 2,000 gallons of water,” said Shive VFD Fire Chief Michael Bosse. “It is replacing an older truck in our fleet and will help […]

TROY, Texas — Troy Volunteer Fire Department received a $14,000 cost-share grant to help purchaseequipment (slip-on unit) to transform a truck into a firefighting apparatus. The grant was through the RuralVolunteer Fire Department Assistance Program administered by Texas A&M Forest Service. “The primary mission for this new slip-on unit will be wildland firefighting,” said Troy […]

ROYCE CITY, Texas -– Thanks to a $100,000 grant, Union Valley VFD now has a new brush truck in theirfleet. The cost-share grant is through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program administered byTexas A&M Forest Service. “Our department is very grateful to have a new, reliable 2020 response apparatus that was designed by five […]

Crosby Volunteer Fire Department received an $18,500 cost share grant through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program administered by Texas A&M Forest Service. The grant helped to purchase two new Jaws-of-Life. “Our department is pleased to have received an HB2604 grant to help purchase two battery powered cutters that are not only portable but […]

Henly Volunteer Fire Department (Hays County ESD #6) accepted a grant through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program administered by Texas A&M Forest Service. The $200,000 cost share grant helped purchase a 2020 tender. “This tender is the missing link that will enable us to get water to the front line of a wildland […]

SUDAN, Texas – Sudan Fire Department added a new 2020 brush truck to their fleet thanks to a $199,800 costshare grant through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program administered by Texas A&MForest Service. “We are proud to have received this grant to help purchase an apparatus that will be used exclusively forwildland fires,” said […]

The ten department members of the Enloe Volunteer Fire Department used their talents to convert a 2.5-ton Stewart Stevenson into a firefighting apparatus. The excess military vehicle was awarded to them through the Department of Defense Firefighter Property Program (DoD FFP). The department also accepted a $20,000 grant from the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance […]

Cool-Garner Volunteer Fire Department now has a new addition to their department that allows them to transport 1,000 gallons of water for initial attack on a structure or wildland fire thanks to a Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistant grant administered by Texas A&M Forest Service. “Engine 43 is our first-out engine capable of pumping 1,500 […]

PICKTON, Texas – Pickton-Pine Forest Volunteer Fire Department increased their fleet thanks to a $99,723Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance cost share grant administered by Texas A&M Forest Service. “The new apparatus has a four-wheel-drive, a 300-gallon water tank, foam capability, bumper spray nozzle, and electric hose reel,” said Fire Chief Trey Thompson. “It is built […]

North Shore Fire Department added a water tender to their fleet that can carry 3,000 gallons of water to any fire response in the department’s service area. The department purchased the apparatus thanks to community donations and a cost share grant that was awarded through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program administered by Texas […]

STEPHENVILLE, Texas – Selden Volunteer Fire Department members turned a 2003 Stewart Stevenson truckinto a firefighting machine to help protect their community and surrounding area. The fruit of their laborproduced a brush truck with a slip-on unit that has a 2,000-gallon water tank and is capable of drafting from apond, creek, or pool. The truck […]

Turnersville Volunteer Fire Department received a cost share grant to help purchaserescue equipment that will help to increase the departments capacity to save lives in their community andsurrounding area. The grant was awarded through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Programadministered by Texas A&M Forest Service. “We purchased several pieces of rescue equipment which included […]

MIDLAND, Texas – Northeast Midland County Volunteer Fire Department received a $200,000 cost sharegrant through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program administered by Texas A&M ForestService. “This truck has been in service since day one,” said Northeast Midland County VFD Assistant Fire Chief ZackCzelada. “Three hours after we got the truck, it was put […]

Novice Volunteer Fire Department is the recipient of an excess military truck through the Department of Defense Firefighter Property Program. The department also accepted a $20,000 grant through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program to purchase a slip-on unit and installed it onto the 5-ton military truck; both programs are administered by Texas A&M […]

VAN ALSTYNE, Texas – Van Alstyne Volunteer Fire Department accepted a $197,000 cost share grant fromthe Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program administered by Texas A&M Forest Service. Thegrant was used to help purchase a 2019 brush truck. “Our department is very pleased to have this up-to-date brush truck to help us better serve our […]

CHEROKEE, Texas – Thanks to a $200,000 grant and community support Cherokee Volunteer Fire Department purchased a new 2019 brush truck. The cost share grant was through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program administered by Texas A&M Forest Service. “With summer fire season fast approaching, we appreciate having a new addition to our fleet […]

BISHOP, Texas – Nueces County ESD #3 converted an excess military truck thanks to the Department of DefenseFirefighter Property Program and a grant for a slip-on unit through the Rural Volunteer Fire DepartmentAssistance Program, both administered by Texas A&M Forest Service. “Our department did all of the work to complete the conversion of this truck,” […]

The Garwood Volunteer Fire Department accepted a $200,000 cost share grant from the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program administered by Texas A&M Forest Service. The grant helped purchase a pumper/tanker that has a 3,000-gallon water capacity and self-contained foam system. “This new apparatus can carry a large quantity of water as well as draft […]

GARRISON, Texas – Garrison Volunteer Fire Department converted an excess military truck into a firefightingmachine by adding a slip-on unit. The truck was awarded through the Department of Defense Firefighter Property Program and the slip-on unit grant was through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department AssistanceProgram both administered by Texas A&M Forest Service. “Our department members […]

Bergheim Volunteer Fire Department added a 2019 pumper/tender to their fleet to help increase the capacity of their department thanks to a $200,000 cost share grant through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program administered by Texas A&M Forest Service. “This is a dual function apparatus that can carry 1,000 gallons of water and has […]

PONTOTOC, Texas – Pontotoc Volunteer Fire Department increased their fleet capacity by transforming a2003 Stewart Stevenson truck tractor, awarded through the Department of Defense Firefighter PropertyProgram. The conversion of the excess military truck was completed thanks to a Rural Fire DepartmentAssistance Program grant, both administered by Texas A&M Forest Service. “Our department members volunteered their […]

ROMA, Texas – Roma Volunteer Fire Department accepted an excess military truck from the Department ofDefense Firefighter Property Program and a grant through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department AssistanceProgram. The grant was used to help purchase a slip-on unit converting the vehicle into a tanker for firefighting.Both programs are administered by the Texas A&M Forest […]

ROSS, Texas – Through the Department of Defense Firefighter Property Program, the Ross Volunteer Fire Department received an excess military truck and converted it into a tanker for firefighting with grant supportfrom the Rural Voluntary Fire Department Assistance Program. Texas A&M Forest Service administers bothprograms. “Our department is very pleased to have received the 2003 […]

POWDERLY, Texas -– Powderly Volunteer Fire Department upgraded from a 1991 firefighting slip-on unitthanks to a cost-share grant through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program administered byTexas A&M Forest Service. “Our department is grateful to have received a $20,000 grant to help replace an older slip-on unit that haddecreased water pressure, a leaking pump, […]

LINDEN, Texas –- Center Hill Volunteer Fire Department accepted a cost-share grant through the RuralVolunteer Fire Department Assistance Program administered by Texas A&M Forest Service. The grant wasused to purchase a slip-on unit that was installed onto a 2013 Stewart Stevenson truck. “Center Hill Volunteer Fire Department’s new fire apparatus once served in the military, […]

MASON, Texas –- Loyal Valley Volunteer Fire Department accepted a $15,600 grant to help purchase a slip-onunit that was installed onto a 4-wheel-drive truck chassis. The transformation will give the department a smallbrush truck for quick, safe response to wildland and structure fires and EMS calls. The cost-share grant wasmade possible through the HB2604 Rural […]

Dalhart Volunteer Fire Department added new rescue equipment thanks to a $20,000 costshare grant through the HB2604 Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program administered by TexasA&M Forest Service. “We are grateful for this grant that helped purchase a battery powered Jaws of Life,” said Dalhart VFD FireChief Curtis Brown. “The volunteers trained on the operation […]

Bloomburg Volunteer Fire Department accepted an $18,500 cost share grant from theRural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program administered by Texas A&M Forest Service. The granthelped to purchase rescue tools, traffic cones and a thermal imaging camera. “Our department has been serving the Bloomburg community since 1974 and we never had our own extricationtools,” said Bloomburg […]

COLMESNEIL, Texas — Colmesneil Volunteer Fire Department added a 2019 brush truck to their fleet thanks to a cost share grant through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. “This new addition will allow for a quick response to grass fires and other small fires with easy access in tight areas,” said Fire Chief Alan […]

Tarkington Volunteer Fire Department added a 2020 International tender with compressed air foam system (CAFS) to their fleet thanks to a $218,000 cost share grant from the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program administered by Texas A&M Forest Service. “This new addition to our fleet will allow for increased response capabilities,” said Tarkington VFD Fire […]

SHIRO, Texas, Shiro Volunteer Fire Department increased the firefighting power of their fleetthanks to a $20,000 cost-share grant through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Programadministered by Texas A&M Forest Service. “Our department feels fortunate to have received a grant that helped in replacing an older slip-on unit,”said Shiro VFD Fire Chief Dan Sharron. “The […]

Bronte Volunteer Fire Department received a $19,700 equipment grant through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program to help purchase new rescue equipment, hand tools and lighting that will be beneficial in the safety of department members and those they help. “The recent acquisition of funds from Texas A&M Forest Service has allowed us to […]

Scenic Loop Volunteer Fire Department recently had a big check presentation to commemorate the addition of a 2019 water tender. Those attending the event included State Representative James White, Polk County Commissioner Bob Willis, Polk County EMC Courtney Comstock, Fire Chief Donald Marlow, members of the Scenic Loop Volunteer Fire Department and representatives of Texas […]

Bon Wier Volunteer Fire Department accepted a 2005 firefighting apparatusoffered through the Helping Hands Program administered by Texas A&M Forest Service. “It is good to have a dependable truck that will hold 750-gallons of water and can carry up to eightfirefighter,” said Bon Wier VFD Assistant Chief Sean Mills. The truck will primarily be used […]

KILLEEN, Texas  Southwest Bell County Volunteer Fire Department received a $20,000 cost-sharegrant to purchase a slip-on unit that will help update the department’s five-ton military truckconversion. The grant was through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Programadministered by Texas A&M Forest Service. The slip-on unit was built to the department’s specifications, improving water availability. […]

BRENHAM, Texas – Berlin, Mill-Creek, Zionsville Volunteer Fire Department converted a Stewart and Stevenson’s excess military vehicle into a firefighting machine thanks to a $20,000 grant through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program, administered by Texas A&M Forest Service. “This dual-purpose apparatus will not only increase our on-the-scene water capacity but because of its […]

LAKEVIEW, Texas – Excess military vehicles fill the role of firefighting apparatus for many Texas emergencyservice providers. Lakeview Volunteer Fire Department received one of these trucks and converted the excessStewart Stevenson into a firefighting machine. The conversion included the addition of a slip-on unit. “Lakeview VFD received an excess military truck through the Department of […]

HUBBARD, Texas — Hubbard Volunteer Fire Department completed a fleet upgrade with theaddition of a new brush truck, thanks to a $179,400 cost-share grant through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program administered by Texas A&M Forest Service. “We are pleased to replace an older 1990 truck with one that will be low maintenance and […]

Moody Volunteer Fire Department accepted a $200,000 cost share grant through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program administered by Texas A&M Forest Service. The grant was used to help purchase a 2019 brush truck. “With a growing wildland interface, it was important to our community for us to have a truck that can be […]

Butler Volunteer Fire Department received a grant for a small truck chassisthrough the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program administered by Texas A&M ForestService. The department built out the chassis as a light rescue truck that can also serve as a smallbrush truck with a 250-gallon water tank and a 20-gallon foam tank. “This new […]

WACO, Texas — A new coat of paint and a slip-on unit give Downsville Volunteer Fire Department’s 2.5-ton excess military truck new life. The 1997 Stewart Stevenson will help to fill in thegap as a small brush truck, essential for wildland firefighting. This truck is one of 700 that have been transferred at no cost […]

SAN ANTONIO, Texas  Ata Bexar County Line Volunteer Fire Department converted a 1994 StewardStevenson’s 2.5-ton excess military vehicle into a firefighting machine thanks to an $18,300 grant through theHB2604 Rural Volunteer Fire Department Program. This Stewart Stevenson is one of over 700 excess military trucks that have been transferred at no cost tovolunteer fire […]

GROESBECK, Texas, Groesbeck Volunteer Fire Department now has a new 1,000-gallon capacityslip-on unit thanks to a $19,800 HB2604 cost share grant through the Rural Volunteer Fire DepartmentAssistance Program. “Groesbeck VFD received a grant to help replace a slip-on unit for their 5-ton excess military vehicle,”said Matthew Schlaefer, Texas A&M Forest Service Regional Fire Coordinator. “The […]

Having sufficient water is critical at the onset of a fire. Mabank Volunteer Fire Department now has a new water tender capable of carrying 4,000 gallons of water and 30-gallons of foam. The tender was purchased thanks to a $200,000 cost share grant through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program administered by Texas A&M […]

CRANFILLS GAP, Texas — Cranfills Gap Volunteer Fire Department received a 2019 Freightlinerlarge brush truck thanks to a $200,000 grant through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department AssistanceProgram administered by Texas A&M Forest Service. The truck has pump controls in the walk-thruand at the back of the truck, a backup camera with communication capabilities and a […]

WACO, Texas — Speegleville Volunteer Fire Department received a $20,000 cost-share grant to help purchase a new slip-on unit. The grant was through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program administered by Texas A&M Forest Service. “The new slip-on unit is mounted on the department’s 5-ton military truck and is ready for action as a […]

BARTLETT, Texas — Bartlett Volunteer Fire Department accepted a cost-share grant to help replacean older slip-on unit. The grant was through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Programadministered by Texas A&M Forest Service. “We appreciate the new slip-on unit that will be used to fight grass, hay, and wildland fires in ourimmediate rural area and […]

MENARD, Texas — Menard Volunteer Fire Department added a 2020 Freightliner large brush truckto their fleet. The purchase was made possible with a $90,000 grant through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program administered by Texas A&M Forest Service. “We haven’t had a new truck since 2006 and then we bought a truck to build […]

PLEASANTON, Texas — Pleasanton Volunteer Fire Department accepted a $215,000 cost-share grantto help purchase a new large brush truck. The grant is through the Rural Volunteer Fire DepartmentAssistance Program administered by Texas A&M Forest Service. The brush truck comes equipped with a compressed air foam system (CAFS), remote control frontbumper water monitor and a behind […]

WOODVILLE, Texas — Texas A&M Forest Service awarded the Shady Grove Volunteer Fire Department a Stewart Stevenson 2.5-ton cargo military truck through the Department of DefenseFirefighter Property Program and an $18,700 grant through the Rural Volunteer Fire DepartmentAssistance Program. The grant helped purchase a slip-on unit to complete the conversion of the military truck into […]

The Ozona Volunteer Fire Department received an equipment grant through theRural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program administered by Texas A&M Forest Service. The grant was used to purchase radios, wireless microphones and charging stations. All are criticalpieces of equipment for communication during emergency response. “The Bluetooth wireless microphones allow the firefighters to communicate using the […]

COFFEE CITY, Texas — Coffee City Volunteer Fire Department received a $36,000 cost-share grantthrough the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program administered by Texas A&M ForestService. The grant was used to purchase a slip-on unit with a compressed air foam system (CAFS).“Our area is rural, without access to fire hydrants,” said Fire Chief Chris Moore. […]

Loyal Valley Volunteer Fire Department received a $45,000 cost share grantthrough the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program administered by Texas A&M ForestService. The funds were used to help purchase a new Ram 3500 truck chassis with a custom built bedto accommodate the growing needs of the department. “This truck has a 300-gallon water tank […]

IREDELL, Texas — The Iredell Volunteer Fire Department accepted a $200,000 cost-share grant through theRural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program administered by Texas A&M Forest Service. The grant was used to purchase a large brush truck that has an 800-gallon water tank, scene lighting, pump thatcan be operated from the cab or in the walk […]

MORGAN, Texas — Lakeside Village Volunteer Fire Department received a cost share grant from the RuralVolunteer Fire Department Assistance Program administered by Texas A&M Forest Service. The grant wasused to help add a new small brush truck to the department’s fleet. “The 2019 brush truck is very well armed for wildland firefighting,” said Assistant Fire […]

Southwest Bell County Volunteer Fire Department accepted a $200,000 cost share grant from the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program administered by Texas A&M Forest Service. The grant was used to help purchase a 2019 water tender with a 1,200-gallon water tank, dump tank, self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) in all seating positions, intercom system and […]

Castle Lake Ranch Volunteer Fire Department accepts a $196,000 cost share grant to help purchase a 2019 water tender that will increase the department’s fleet capacity. The rural area does not have fire hydrant accessibility so having access to 2,100 gallons of water at the onset of a fire will be a real asset. “This […]

The McGregor Volunteer Fire Department added a number of rescue and safety items to their cache, thanks to a cost share grant through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Programadministered by Texas A&M Forest Service. “The addition of a vehicle stabilization kit which includes struts and air bags will help increase the capacity ofour department […]

Texas A&M Forest Service is opening the Austin Airtanker Base at the Austin-Bergstrom International Airport to assist with increased wildfire activity across the state.

The Maydelle Volunteer Fire Department received a $200,000 cost share grant from the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program administered by Texas A&M Forest Service. The grant was used to help purchase a new water tender. “Our department faced a challenge of water shortage,” said Fire Chief Jody Gray. “This new 2019 Freightliner with a […]

Weldon Volunteer Fire Department received a $200,000 cost share grant through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. The grant program is administered by Texas A&M Forest Service and was used to help purchase a tender that is designed to transport water from its source to the scene of a fire. This new addition will […]

GHOLSON, Texas — Gholson Volunteer Fire Department added a new rescue/small brush truck to their fleet thanks to a $45,000 grant through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Programadministered by Texas A&M Forest Service. “This new truck will be one of our first-out for wildland fires and rescue situations,” said GholsonVFD Fire Chief Mitch Vaughn. […]

Hereford Volunteer Fire Department received a $14,000 equipment cost share grant through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program administered by Texas A&M Forest Service. The grant was used to help purchase a washer/extractor and dryer that will properly clean their personal protective equipment (PPE). The effectiveness of fire gear can be reduced without the […]

Elmwood Volunteer Fire Department added a 2019 Freightliner water tender to their fleet, increasing their capacity to serve their community and surrounding area. “This tender is replacing a 1976 truck that was difficult to drive,” said Fire Chief Clyde Cunningham. “This new apparatus has a 2,000-gallon water tank and will be able to shuttle enough […]

Retreat Volunteer Fire Department added a new 2019 tanker/pumper with many computerized updates to their fleet. Thanks to this new addition Retreat VFD was able to donate two of their serviceable apparatus to other small fire departments. “This new tanker/pumper is quite an upgrade from our 1975 manual truck,” said Fire Chief Hunter Smith. “It […]

Surfside Beach Volunteer Fire Department accepted a $200,000 cost share grant through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program to help purchase a new water tender with a 1,250-gallon water tank and foam capability. “This apparatus is replacing a 1993 truck and will have a dual purpose,” said Surfside Beach VFD Fire Chief Pete David. […]

COLD SPRING, Texas — Punkin-Evergreen Volunteer Fire Department received a $100,000 costshare grant through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program administered by TexasA&M Forest Service. The grant allowed the department to purchase a 2019 small brush truck. “This new addition will be our first-out for wildland fires and will also aid in getting additional […]

PALO PINTO, Texas — Lone Camp Volunteer Fire Department added a 2019 small brush truck to their fleet thanks to a $100,000 cost share grant through the Rural Volunteer Fire DepartmentAssistance Program administered by Texas A&M Forest Service. “This new unit will expand our firefighting capabilities as it carries more manpower, water, and tools,”said Lone […]

Southside Henderson County Volunteer Fire Department/Emergency Service District 11 added a 2019 water tender thanks to a $200,000 cost share grant through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program administered by Texas A&M Forest Service. “This new water tender is replacing a smaller converted farm truck that we used to shuttle water,” said Fire Chief […]

TYLER, Texas  Jackson Heights Volunteer Fire Department, added an excess military truck with a slip-on unitto their fleet. The height and ruggedness of the 6×6 cargo truck will help fill the need for a high-water rescueapparatus. The 1996 Stewart Stevenson was received through the Department of Defense (DoD) FirefighterProperty Program and the slip-on unit […]

LANEVILLE, Texas — Laneville Volunteer Fire Department received a 2019 small brush truck thanks to a cost share grant through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program administered by Texas A&M Forest Service. The department commemorated the event with big check and tree presentations as symbols of partnerships with those who help to protect forests […]

BARDWELL, Texas — Bardwell Area Volunteer Fire Department added a new large brush truck namedMarcos to their fleet. The 2018 apparatus is designed to confront any challenging landscape and will increasecapacity for wildland firefighting. “We put a lot of thought into this new truck,” said Bardwell Area VFD Fire Chief Michael Anthony. “Everything from storage […]

ITASCA, Texas: To increase the capacity of their fleet, members of the Itasca Volunteer Fire Departmenthave been transforming an excess military vehicle into a firefighting machine. The 1990 BMY 5-ton cargo truck was awarded through the Department of Defense Firefighter PropertyProgram, along with a $20,000 grant for a slip-on unit through the Rural Volunteer Fire […]

Cypress Lakes Volunteer Fire Department received a 2019 truck chassis with 4-wheel-drive that will allow the department better accessibility to rural areas. The new truck is equipped with a slip-on unit that has a 300-gallon water tank and foam capability for wildland,structure or vehicle fire response. It is in service and has been used in […]

Receiving a $65,000 cost share grant was the key to helping purchase a 2019 small brush truck and a slip-on unit for the Pursley Volunteer Fire Department. The grant is through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program, administered by Texas A&M Forest Service. “We doubled our service area since January so this new truck […]

JEWETT, Texas — The new addition to the East Lake Limestone Volunteer Fire Department was made possible thanks to a $218,000 cost-share grant through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program administered by Texas A&M Forest Service. “This will be our first-out truck because it is so well equipped,” said Fire Chief Red Ard. “It […]

MATHIS, Texas — Mathis Volunteer Fire Department received a $110,000 cost share grant through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program to help purchase a new large brush truck and a slip-on unit. The program is administered by the Texas A&M Forest Service. “This new apparatus has a 1,000-gallon water tank and a 20-gallon foam […]

ROUND MOUNTAIN, Texas — Round Mountain Volunteer Fire Department increased their firefightingcapacity by adding a 2019 large brush truck thanks to a cost share grant through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program administered by Texas A&M Forest Service. The brush truck is equipped with a 1,100-gallon water tank, a 10-gallon foam tank, front bumper […]

Whiteface Volunteer Fire Department has new rescue tools that are designed for quickextrication from entrapment. The tools include Jaws of Life, an impact grinder, cutting torch, saws and lighting. “Our department serves an area that is very rural and with that comes the demand for response to farmequipment accidents as well as vehicle accidents,” said […]

SALINENO, Texas  The Salineno Volunteer Fire Department converted a 5-ton military cargo truck into afirefighting apparatus. The department also accepted a $19,900 Rural Volunteer Fire Department AssistanceProgram grant to purchase a slip-on unit for the conversion. The truck is an excess military vehicle from theDepartment of Defense Firefighter Property Program (DOD FFP). Both programs […]

ADRIAN, Texas — Adrian Volunteer Fire Department received a new large brush truck thanks to a$199,800 cost share grant through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program,administered by Texas A&M Forest Service. “Our response area encompasses over 980 square miles of ranch and farmland and 50 miles ofinterstate,” said Adrian Volunteer Fire Department firefighter Chase […]

Montalba Volunteer Fire Department received a $12,800 cost share grantthrough the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program administered by Texas A&M ForestService. “Our department received battery powered rescue tools needed to preform extrication from a vehicleentrapment or rescue during a structure fire,” said Fire Chief Tracy Pinkerton. “Montalba is betweenAthens and Palestine with Highway 19. […]

AZLE, Texas — Silver Creek Volunteer Fire Department accepts a $100,000 cost-share grant to helppurchase a 2019 small brush truck. The grant was awarded through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program administered by Texas A&M Forest Service. “Silver Creek VFDs new brush truck carries 25 percent more water and is more reliable than the […]

POOLVILLE, Texas — Poolville Volunteer Fire Department adds a 2019 Freightliner large brushtruck to their fleet thanks to a cost-share grant through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department AssistanceProgram administered by Texas A&M Forest Service. “This new truck is replacing an older one that was starting to have some mechanical issues,” saidAssistant Fire Chief David Pruitt. […]

Thanks to a $200,000 cost share grant through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program, Brock-Dennis Volunteer Fire Department enhanced their fleet with a custom built tender. The grant program is administered by Texas A&M Forest Service. “This new tender/pumper has a 1,000-gallon water tank that will increase our water capacity,” said Fire Chief Travis […]

GROESBECK, Texas — Groesbeck Volunteer Fire Department replaced an older truck with a new2019 large brush truck thanks to a cost share grant through the Rural Volunteer Fire DepartmentAssistance Program administered by Texas A&M Forest Service. “The primary use for this apparatus will be wildland firefighting, but it can also be used for a quickattack […]

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 […]

Woodville Volunteer Fire Department received a $16,000 cost share grant through theRural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program administered by Texas A&M Forest Service. Thedepartment purchased a variety of firefighting and rescue tools to enhance their capacity. Having the right tools is half the job. “We appreciate the grant that we received for tools that will […]

WICHITA FALLS, Texas  Bowman Community Volunteer Fire Department now has access to anextra 3,300 gallons of water to help fight wildland fires thanks to a grant through the Rural VolunteerFire Department Assistance Program. “Our protection area is becoming more of a wildland-urban interface, so this truck is very important inhelping to protect property not […]

SAN ANGELO, Texas  Pecan Creek Volunteer Fire Department converted an excess StewartStephenson, 2.5 ton military truck into a firefighting machine by adding a slip-on unit. The truck wasawarded through the Department of Defense Firefighter Property Program and the slip-on unit grantwas through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program administered by TexasA&M Forest Service. […]

Avinger Volunteer Fire Department added a new water tender to their fleet thanks to a cost share grant through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program administered by Texas A&M Forest Service. “This new tender is built to be a multipurpose apparatus even though it can carry 1,000 gallons of water,” said Fire Chief Kyle […]

TERRELL, Texas — Ables Springs VFD added a state-of-the-art brush truck to help increase thedepartment’s capacity to save property and lives. “This will be one of our first out trucks for brush fires,” said Fire Chief Robert Irwin. “It has a lot ofimprovements that our other truck did not have, such as a Compressed Air […]

KIRVIN, Texas — Kirvin Community Volunteer Fire Department transformed a 1997 StewartStevenson into a brush truck capable of fighting wildland fires and navigating high water. It wasawarded through the Department of Defense Firefighter Property Program (DoD), along with a $20,000grant for a slip-on unit through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program, bothprograms administered through […]

BRIDGEPORT, Texas — Boonsville-Balsora Volunteer Fire Department converted a 2.5-ton StewartStevenson 4×4 excess military truck into a heavy-duty firefighting apparatus. “This truck has allowed us to retire an older truck that was less reliable,” said Fire Chief Andrew Wood. “It hasa number of upgrades that will help increase our capacity when fighting wildland fires.” According […]

ANSON, Texas – Anson Volunteer Fire Department applied for a Department of Defense Firefighter PropertyProgram grant that allowed them to receive a 2002 excess military truck. Stipulations for receiving the truck arethat it must be painted a nonmilitary color and transformed into a service ready vehicle within 180 days. Thedepartment members partnered with a local […]

The City of Milano Volunteer Fire Department acquired an excess military vehicle through the Department of Defense Firefighter Property Program (DOD FFP). The department also accepted a $20,000 grant through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program to help purchase a new slip-on unit; both programs are administered by Texas A&M Forest Service. “The rural […]

WINTERS, Texas  Winters Volunteer Fire Department received a $20,000 grant to assist in the conversion ofa 1996 Stewart Stevenson 2.5-ton cargo truck with only 7,259 miles on the odometer. The accompanying slipon the unit was awarded through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program and the excess militarythe truck was through the Department of […]

KOUNTZE, Texas  Kountze Volunteer Fire Department added a converted military truck to their emergencyresponse fleet in preparation of wildland fire and flooding. “This is the first off-road type apparatus that our department has ever had,” said Fire Chief Barry Mitchael.“Our area went through Hurricane Harvey but seems to be getting 2-3 floods a year […]

GORDONVILLE, Texas — Gordonville Volunteer Fire Department now has a multipurpose large brush truck thanks to community support and a $200,000 grant through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program administered by Texas A&M Forest Service. “This is an all-around brush truck that can also be classified as a mini pumper with an 800-gallon poly […]

Tahoka Volunteer Fire Department replaces an older model truck with a 2018 water tender thanks to a cost share grant through the Texas A&M Forest Service Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. “We appreciate receiving an HB2604 grant to help purchase our new fleet addition,” said Fire Chief Bryan Reynolds. “The Freightliner chassis with its […]

Having rescue equipment readily available can be lifesaving. Thornton Volunteer Fire Department received a $15,000 grant through the Texas A&M Forest Service Rural Volunteer Fire DepartmentAssistance Program. “This is a first for our department,” said Fire Chief Paul Miller. “We have always had to depend on twodepartments that we mutual aid with to respond to […]

LA CASITA, Texas  La Casita VFD received a 2.5-ton excess military truck through the Department ofDefense Firefighter Property Program (DoD FFP) and accepted an $18,000 grant from the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program to help purchase a slip-on unit. Both programs are administered by TexasA&M Forest Service. Rough territory is no match for […]

COLEMAN, Texas  Glen Cove Volunteer Fire Department converted a Stewart Stevenson militarytruck into an apparatus capable of getting into the most challenging of areas since the ranching andfarming area that they serve has heavy brush and rocky terrain. “This truck is a whole different monster,” said Glen Cove VFD President Scott Beaver. “We arereplacing […]

RICHLAND SPRINGS, Texas -– Richland Springs Volunteer Fire Department received a cost share grantthrough the Texas A&M Forest Service Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. The $6,000 grantand donations from the community made the purchase of a new front bumper water monitor possible. “Our community is very supportive,” said Fire Chief Jeffery Bates. “I like […]

Harbin Volunteer Fire Department now has immediate access to 1,000 gallons of water thanks to a $199,000 grant through the Texas A&M Forest Service Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. “This 2019 tender is extremely important to us because of our lack of fire hydrants,” said Fire Chief James Brunson. “The large quantity of water […]

HOLLAND, Texas — Holland Volunteer Fire Department purchased a 2018 Super Duty F750 thanks to a$192,000 grant through the Texas A&M Forest Service Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. “This new addition to our fleet will have multipurpose capabilities,” said Assistant Fire Chief Joey Perez. “Thefoam system makes it capable of functioning as a wildland […]

Thanks to the support of the community during the department’s boot driveand a cost share grant through Texas A&M Forest Service Rural Volunteer Fire Department AssistanceProgram, Gun Barrel City Fire Department purchased a new Jaws-of-life rescue system, air bags and chocks. “The new rescue tools are an upgrade, replacing older hydraulic tools that took more […]

Eula Volunteer Fire Department adds a new 2018 Freightliner tender to their fleet thanks to a Texas A&M Forest Service Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program cost share grant. The $200,000 grant plus support from the community made it possible for the department to make the purchase and retire an older truck. “This new tender […]

JACKSONVILLE, Texas — Earle’s Chapel Volunteer Fire Department received a cost share grant from TexasA&M Forest Service Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program to help purchase a new large brushtruck. “This new apparatus is replacing an older 1992 truck that required a lot of maintenance,” said Earle’s ChapelVFD Fire Chief Ted Hunt. “The department appreciates […]

Grape Creek Volunteer Fire Department received a cost share grant through the Texas A&M Forest Service Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. It helped purchase a 2019 International tender with a 3,000-gallon water tank and a drop tank of equal size. “Less than 10 percent of our coverage area has access to fire hydrants so […]

HAPPY, Texas — A $20,000 cost share grant through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department AssistanceProgram helped Happy Volunteer Fire Department complete the conversion of a 1990, 5-ton cargo truck. Thetruck was awarded through the Department of Defense Firefighter Property Program. Both programs areadministered through Texas A&M Forest Service and funded by the Texas State Legislature. […]

BOSQUE, Texas — Walnut Springs VFD now has a new slip-on unit to help fight brush fires. Thanksto a Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance grant through Texas A&M Forest Service. A slip-on unit is designed to become a fast initial-attack firefighting unit. It is used in wildlandfirefighting as well as structure and auto fires, and […]

Wilson County ESD #1 Fire and Rescue received a $10,000 Texas A&MForest Service Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance cost share grant. The departmentpurchased rescue tools that will be used to assist in the extrication of victims involved in a vehiclecrash and other rescues from small spaces where forcible entry is needed. “The funding that we […]

Dew Volunteer Fire Department received a cost share grant through the TexasA&M Forest Service’s Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. The grant was used topurchase rescue equipment that reduces the setup time when seconds count. “Our department is happy to replace a set of rescue tools that had been in use for 20 years,” said […]

2604 VFD received a $76,600 grant through the Texas A&M Forest Service Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. The grant was used to help purchase a large truck chassis that the department equipped with a 1,100-gallon water tank. “We are happy to receive this grant which helped our department replace a 1986 truck that continually […]

Selden VFD received a Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance cost share grant through Texas A&M Forest Service. The grant was used to help purchase a 2019 poly body tender that will primarily be in service as a water tender but is equipped with rescue and structural equipment making it a multipurpose apparatus. “This tender has […]

Flint-Gresham Volunteer Fire Department added a forcible entry training door to their cache of training tools. The purchase was made possible with a cost share grant through the RuralVolunteer Fire Department Assistance Program administered by Texas A&M Forest Service. “The forcible entry training door will allow this department to hone their skills on accessing structuresmore […]

GROVETON, Texas — Groveton Fire Department Association (FD) accepted a Texas A&M Forest ServiceRural 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,” saidGroveton Fire Chief Glenn Hammond. “It will not only be used […]

Seale-Round Prairie Volunteer Fire Department received an $18,300 costshare grant through the Texas A&M Forest Service Rural Volunteer Fire Department AssistanceProgram. The grant helped the department purchase rescue tools. “The new electric Jaws of Life tools are an addition to our rescue operations,” said Fire Chief EddieWillis. “Since the new tools are lighter and stronger […]

Thanks to a $24,000 Texas A&M Forest Service Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance grant, Central Heights Appleby Volunteer Fire Department purchased up-todate rescue tools. “The new cutter, spreader and ram, commonly called Jaws of Life, will allow for faster extrication of avictim after a vehicle accident,” said Fire Chief Jimmy Russell. “They are used to […]

The Texas A&M University System Board of Regents have recognized James B. Rooni of Texas A&M Forest Service as a 2017-2018 Regents Fellow Service Award recipient.

TEAGUE, Texas — Teague Volunteer Fire Department (VFD) added a new, large brush truck to their fleetthanks to a $198,000 Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance grant through the Texas A&M Forest Service. “This brush truck will be beneficial to the department because it can fill several roles,” said Teague Fire ChiefJody Bodine. “It gives us […]

APPLE SPRINGS, Texas — To commemorate receiving a cost-share grant from Texas A&M Forest Service, the Apple Springs Volunteer Fire Department (VFD) recently planted a tree and held a ceremony. The tree symbolizes the interagency partnerships needed to help protect forests and natural resources against wildland fires. The grant was used to purchase a new, […]

COLORADO, Texas — Colorado City Volunteer Fire Department brings their firefighting capacity to a newlevel thanks to a cost share grant through Texas A&M Forest Service’s Rural Volunteer Fire DepartmentAssistant Program. “This truck is bigger, better, and tougher than anything our department has ever had,” said Tom Carlock, firstassistant fire chief. “The truck has responded […]

Texas A&M Forest Service will host an upcoming Tree Recovery event in Houston as part of the NASCAR Green Race for Trees Campaign. This year, the campaign will distribute 500 trees in Houston to replace those that were damaged and destroyed by Hurricane Harvey. Area residents may

A $14,000 Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance grant through TexasA&M Forest Service gave Pittsburg Fire-Rescue the opportunity to purchase their first battery poweredhydraulic rescue tools commonly known as a “Jaws of Life” system. “The purchase included a spreader, cutter and batteries that will help speed up the extrication processduring critical times when moments count,” said […]

CADDO, Texas — Through an $89,900 Texas A&M Forest Service Volunteer Fire Department grant,the Caddo Texas Volunteer Fire Department has updated its fleet with a newer brush truck to use forwildfire response. “This truck will add reliability to our fleet,” said Fire Chief David Campbell. “Having a truck thatdoesn’t require a lot of maintenance, frees […]

Through a $200,000 grant from the Texas A&M Forest Service Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program, the Hartley Volunteer Fire Department now has a new water tender to be used for wildfire suppression and emergency response calls. “This 2018 tender will be a great asset to our department since we offer fire service to a […]

PERRIN, Texas — The Perrin VFD received a brush truck made possible with a $200,000 cost sharegrant through the Texas A&M Forest Service Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. The flat farmland in Jack County has a great potential for wildland fires this time of year. The 2018large brush truck with its 1,000-gallon water tank […]

MERTENS, Texas — Mertens Volunteer Fire Department received a $100,000 grant through the Texas A&M Forest Service Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. The cost share grant was used to purchase a 2017 Ford F550 small brush truck complete with a four-wheel drive, a 300-gallon water tank, a 10-gallon foam tank, and bumper nozzles. “This […]

Ellis County ESD #1 purchased rescue tools thanks to a grant through the Texas A&MForest Service Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. “The new Jaws, cutters, hose and power plant replaced equipment that had been in service for 25 years,” saidEllis County ESD #1 Assistant Chief Jim Morrison. “This new generation of equipment is lighter […]

BRECKENRIDGE, Texas  Wayland Volunteer Fire Department increased their fleet with a converted military vehicle. It is automatic and six-wheel drive. It will carry 1,000 gallons of water in a self-supporting tank. “This truck is replacing a 1988 GMC that was two-wheel-drive with a standard transmission,” said Wayland VFD Volunteer Brian Rogers. “It will not […]

84 East Volunteer Fire Department received a new tender through the Texas A&M Forest Service Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. “The water tender not only carries a large quantity of water but can draft from a pond or creek,” said 84 East VFD Fire Chief Alan Fox. “It also has four-wheel-drive, front bumper monitor […]

Lake Mexia Volunteer Fire Department converted an excess military vehicle and added a slip-on unit to create a truck that will meet the challenges of wildland firefighting. The military truck was acquired through the Department of Defense Firefighter Property Program (DoD FFP), and a $20,000 grant for the slip-on unit is through the Rural Volunteer […]

MARIETTA, Texas — Marietta Volunteer Fire Department accepted a cost-share grant through the TexasA&M Forest Service Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. The grant was used to helppurchase a brush truck with all-wheel drive, a 750-gallon poly water tank, and a 20-gallon foam cell. “This new truck is equipped to function as a large brush […]

Some 98 firefighters from 29 Texas fire departments in 20 counties will head to California this week to fight wildfires that have burned more than 750,000 acres. The deployment is an activation of the Texas Intrastate Fire Mutual Aid System (TIFMAS) for wildfire suppression

HARLETON, Texas — The Harleton Volunteer Fire Department received a $218,000 cost share grantthrough the Texas A&M Forest Service Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. The awardwas used to purchase a 2018 International 7400 brush truck. The department is very happy to have a vehicle with a 4-wheel drive to better serve their farming and […]

SHIRO, Texas — Shiro Volunteer Fire Department received a $38,000 grant from Texas A&M ForestService to purchase a new slip-on unit with a compressed air foam system (CAFS). The new unit willhelp resolve challenges and add more firefighting capability. “The lack of fire hydrants in our area makes it even more important to be able […]

WACO, Texas — Speegleville Volunteer Fire Department converted a 2.5-ton, 6X6 military truck into afirefighting vehicle. It replaces an older, smaller brush truck with failing equipment. The excess military truckwas acquired through the Department of Defense Firefighter Property Program (DoD FFP). “This truck brings our fleet back up to what it should be,” said Speegleville […]

Wills Point Volunteer Fire Department received an $18,900 grant through the Texas A&MForest Service Rural VFD Assistance Program to help purchase lift bags, a cutter, spreader and a computer. “From expanding their capabilities on rescue operations with new extrication tools to a computer that will assist inmanagement of data and training, Wills Point VFD continues […]

The Gatesville Fire Department increased their capacity to save lives and property with the help of a $200,000 grant through the Texas A&M Forest Service Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. The cost share award was used to purchase a water tender with a 3,500-gallon poly water tank, a 750 gallons-per-minute pump and front bumper […]

ELKHART, Texas — A new, large brush truck is ready to roll at the Elkhart Volunteer Fire Department thanks to a $200,000 grant through the Texas A&M Forest Service Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. “The new truck is automatic, has 4-wheel-drive, a front bumper water turret, 800-gallon water tank,foam system, inverter for running electrical […]

Bear Creek Volunteer Fire Department converted a military excess truck into a dual purpose vehicle that will be used for wildland firefighting and high water rescues. The truck was acquired through the Department of Defense Firefighter Property Program (DOD FFP). They also accepted a $20,000 grant to help purchase a new slip-on unit for the […]

Hallsville Volunteer Fire Department added a 2018 International tender to their fleet thanks to a $200,000 cost share grant through the Texas A&M Forest Service Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. The department’s cost share portion was paid by the Harrison County ESD #5. The tender has a 1,000-gallon water tank, 20-gallon Class A foam […]

Briar-Reno Volunteer Fire Department replaced a 1989 water tender with a new 2018 Pierce water tender, thanks to a $200,000 grant from the Texas A&M Forest Service Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. “This is our first new engine in 18 years,” said Briar-Reno VFD Firefighter Moses Druxman. “Our previous truck was a converted military […]

SARGENT, Texas — Sargent Area Volunteer Fire and Rescue received a $19,000 grant through the Texas A&MForest Service Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. The funds were used to purchase a slip-on unit with a 400-gallon water tank and a 10-gallon foam tank. “This new unit was put into service immediately and used in response […]

Pleasanton Volunteer Fire Department accepted a $19,600 grant through the Texas A&MForest Service Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program to purchase much needed rescue equipment. Thecost share portion was provided through fund raising by the department. “We are pleased to have received a grant to purchase more efficient rescue tools,” said Pleasanton VFD Fire ChiefChuck […]

Hubbard Creek Volunteer Fire Department received a cost share grant through the Texas A&M Forest Service Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. The fire department used the grant to purchase a 2017 Ford F550 truck chassis that will be converted into a small brush truck. “This new addition to our fleet will be a great […]

Tool Volunteer Fire Department replaced a 1968 water tender with a lighter, more dependable tender. “Tool VFD combined a $90,000 grant that they received through the Texas A&M Forest Service Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program with monies from the Emergency Service District and fund raising,” said Texas A&M Forest Service Regional Fire Coordinator Joshua […]

WHITE OAK, Texas — White Oak Volunteer Fire Department has added an excess military vehicle to their fleet tohelp with fire suppression and water rescue operations. “We are very pleased to have this truck in our fleet and have offered to make it available in mutual aid to the GreggCounty Sheriff’s Department,” said White Oak […]

REDWATER, Texas — Redwater Volunteer Fire Department converted a military vehicle into a firefightingmachine, giving the department greater capacity to fight wildland fires. The addition of a slip-on unit with a 500gallon poly tank and a Hale pump helped to complete the brush truck conversion. The slip-on unit was purchased with a $20,000 grant from […]

SMITHVILLE, Texas — Smithville Volunteer Fire Department is no stranger to the devastation that a wildfireseason can bring. With this in mind, the department accepted a $100,000 grant through the Texas A&M ForestService Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program to help purchase a 2017 Ford F550 brush truck. Thetruck has a 500-gallon water tank and […]

Weldon Volunteer Fire Department received a grant through the Texas A&M Forest ServiceRural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program to purchase four, 45- minute, self-contained breathingapparatus that are vital in firefighting. The breathing apparatus known as air packs are a benefit to the health of the firefighter, giving them fresh air tobreath when fighting structure fires […]

BUCKHOLTS, Texas — A new 2017 Ford F550 is now housed at the Buckholts Volunteer Fire Department. Thebrush truck has a 400-gallon water tank and foam capability, giving the department greater capacity to protect thefarming community. “Buckholts is a rural community with limited water sources, so having extra water at the scene helps generate a […]

Cash Fire Department received a cost share grant from the Texas A&M Forest Service Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. The grant was used to purchase a 2009 Seagrave Engine with a 750-gallon poly water tank, 1,500-gallons-per-minute pump, twenty kilo watt generator and has foam capability. The engine will be a primary first-out truck for […]

LEVITA, Texas — Levita Fire Department received a $100,000 grant through the Texas A&M Forest Service RuralVolunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. The cost share grant helped to purchase a Ford F550 that will help toincrease wildland firefighting capacity. The department’s cost share portion will be paid with dollars from fundraising and donations from the community. […]

FORT HANCOCK, Texas — Hudspeth County ESD #1 puts their first large brush truck into service thanks to a costshare grant through the Texas A&M Forest Service’s Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. It is anew 2017 brush fighter on a Freightliner chassis with a 1,500-gallon water tank and a 30-gallon foam tank. A brush […]

COOKVILLE, Texas — The Cookville Volunteer Fire Department converted a 2.5-ton military cargo truck into afirefighting apparatus. The department also accepted a $20,000 Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Programgrant to purchase a slip-on unit for the conversion. The truck is an excess military vehicle from the Department ofDefense Firefighter Property Program (DOD FFP). Both programs […]

Arrowhead Ranch Estates Volunteer Fire Department received a cost share grant from the Texas A&M Forest Service Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance program. The grant was used to purchase a 2018 International water tender. The tender is replacing an older truck that carried less water. A tender, also known as a tanker in some regions, […]

GORDONVILLE, Texas — The Gordonville Volunteer Fire Department transformed a 2.5-ton StewartStevenson cargo truck into a firefighting machine. The excess military vehicle was awarded through theDepartment of Defense Firefighter Property Program (DOD FFP). The Gordonville VFD also accepted a$20,000 grant through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. This program currentlyprovides funding to rural volunteer […]

The Center Point Volunteer Fire Department doubles its water carrying volume by replacing a 1991 water tender. They added a new 2018 tender that carries 2,500 gallons of water and will help to increase the department’s firefighting capacity. The tender was purchased with a $200,000 cost share grant through the Texas A&M Forest Service Rural […]

SCOTTSVILLE, Texas  Harrison County ESD #3 Fire Rescue converted a 2001 Stewart Stevenson 5-tonmilitary truck into a service-ready machine. The military vehicle will be used as a multipurpose, large brushtruck in wildland firefighting and high water rescues. “This large brush truck will be used as a dual-purpose vehicle,” said Harrison County ESD #3 Fire […]

SCOTTSVILLE, Texas — Harrison County ESD #3 Fire Rescue converted a 2001 Stewart Stevenson 5-tonmilitary truck into a service-ready machine. The military vehicle will be used as a multipurpose, large brushtruck in wildland firefighting and high water rescues. “This large brush truck will be used as a dual-purpose vehicle,” said Harrison County ESD #3 Fire […]

PAMPA, Texas — Hoover Volunteer Fire Department converted a military tractor truck into a firefighting apparatus,giving the department a new capability for fighting fires. “March is typically a busy month when it comes to wildland fires,” said Hoover VFD Fire Chief Trent Price. “Thistime of year we average two to three calls a day, with […]

CHINA SPRING, Texas — A transformed military vehicle is giving China Spring Volunteer Fire Department extrafirefighting power. The department received a Stewart Stevenson 2.5-ton cargo truck through the Department of Defense Firefighter.Property Program (DOD-FFP) and accepted a 100 percent grant for a slip-on unit through the Rural Volunteer Fire.Department Assistance Program: both programs are administered […]

The Kempner Volunteer Fire Department received a $191,000 grant through the Texas A&M Forest Service Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. The cost-share grant was used to purchase a 2018 Peterbuilt chassis with a 3,000-gallon water tank, 3,000-gallon drop tank and a 1,000-gallon-per-minute pump. The tender, also known as a tanker in some regions, will […]

Weesatche, Texas — Weesatche Volunteer Fire Department converted a 2011 BMT 5-ton military cargo truck into afirefighting apparatus. The excess military vehicle was awarded through the Department of Defense Firefighter Property Program (DoDFFP). The department also accepted a $20,000 grant from the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program topurchase a slip-on unit that was installed […]

BURKBURNETT, Texas — Burkburnett Volunteer Fire Department recently accepted a $100,000 grant through theTexas A&M Forest Service Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. The cost-share grant was used tohelp purchase a 2017 Ford F550 small brush truck. A brush truck is an initial-attack unit used to help meet the demands of the fire service. It […]

Cynthia Foster, head of the Wildfire Planning and Preparedness Department at Texas A&M Forest Service received the Texas A&M University System Board of Regents Fellow Service Award on Wednesday, Feb. 7 at a presentation ceremony in College Station.

Application for Risk Pool insurance

2018 Neches River and Cypress Basin Watershed Restoration Program – Neches River Basin North Eligible Areas

December 15, 2016 — BANGS, Texas — Bangs Volunteer Fire Department recently received a $100,000grant through Texas A&M Forest Service’s Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. The new vehicle is a 2016 Ford F-550 with a 500-gallon water tank, 30-gallon foam tank, bumper-mountednozzles, and pump, which can be operated from inside the cab, behind the […]

THORNTON, Texas — West Lake Limestone Volunteer Fire Department accepted a $20,000 grant from theRural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. The grant was used to purchase a slip-on unit that wasinstalled onto a 5-ton excess military truck received through the Department of Defense Firefighter PropertyProgram (DoD FFP), both programs administered by Texas A&M Forest Service. […]

Port Aransas Fire Department is set to receive a fire truck on loan from Texas A&M Forest Service on Friday, Sept. 29 to temporarily replace one damaged by Hurricane Harvey.

Happy Volunteer Fire Department purchased a 2017 Freightline tanker thanks to a cost share grant from the Texas A&M Forest Service Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. “The department appreciates having a newer, updated tanker that will increase the department’s capacity when responding in the rural community,” said Happy VFD Fire Chief Jerry Sims. “The […]

A grant through the Texas A&M Forest Service Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program made it possible for Valley Mills Volunteer Fire Department to replace an older truck with a 2013 tender with many updated features. “Our main challenge that we face when responding to a call during the day is man-power,” said Valley Mills […]

DAWSON, Texas — Dawson Volunteer Fire Department received a grant from the Texas A&M Forest Service Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program, enabling the department to expand its fleet’s ability to be more aggressive when responding to a wildland fire. “The department replaced an 11-year-old truck with a 2017 Ford F-550 that has a 400-gallon […]

JACKSBORO, Texas — Thanks to a grant from the Texas A&M Forest Service Rural Volunteer Fire DepartmentAssistance Program, East Jack County Volunteer Fire Department replaced an older, unreliable slip-on unit with aCompress Air Foam System (CAFS). The new slip-on was installed onto the back of a truck that the department received in 2005 through a […]

Ellis County Emergency Services District #1 used funding from the Texas A&M Forest Service Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program to increase the department’s capacity to save lives and property in the community and surrounding area. The cost share grant allowed the department to replace a 1975 Ford pumper with a 2017 Spartan pumper/tender that […]

FORT DAVIS, Texas — Davis Mountain Property Owners Association Volunteer Fire Department received a grantto purchase a new slip-on unit with a 700-gallon water tank. Adding this apparatus to a transformed excess militaryvehicle helps increase the capacity of the department to save lives and property. A slip-on unit is an apparatus built to meet the […]

JUNCTION, Texas — Kimble Rural Fire Department used a $20,000 grant from the Texas A&M Forest ServiceRural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program to convert an excess military vehicle into a firefighting truck.The vehicle, a Stewart Stevenson 2.5-ton cargo truck was attained through the Department of Defense Firefighter.Property Program. Kimble Rural installed a slip-on unit with […]

DOSS, Texas — Doss Volunteer Fire Department accepted a $20,000 grant from the RuralVolunteer Fire Department Assistance Program to purchase a slip-on unit and installed it onto a 5-tonthe excess military truck received through the Department of Defense Firefighter Property Program(DoD FFP), the Texas A&M Forest Service administers both programs. A slip-on unit is designed […]

CLYDE, Texas — Eula Volunteer Fire Department received a $20,000 grant from the Texas A&M Forest ServiceRural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. They used the grant to purchase a new slip-on unit andmounted it onto a 5-ton Stewart Stephenson military truck. A slip-on unit is a complete, self-contained firefighting apparatus designed for a pickup truck […]

Rating guide for TIFMAS apparatus

Texas fire departments received more than $6 million in grants Wednesday through the Texas A&M Forest Service Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program.

DIBOLL, Texas — Diboll Volunteer Fire Department received a cost share grant from the Texas A&M ForestService Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. The department filled their need for a large brush truck by equipping a new truck chassis with a 1,000-gallon watertank, Husky foam system with a 1,250-gallon-per-minute pump, and storage areas for all […]

Needville Fire Department received a cost share grant from the Texas A&M ForestService Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. Crucial rescue tools including ropes, harness, stokes basket for victim transport and air bags for vehiclestabilization were purchased with the grant funds. Needville Fire Department volunteers operate out of two stations that are 22 miles apart. […]

CRANDALL, Texas — Crandall Volunteer Fire Department purchased a 2017 Ford F550 truck chassis with a grantfrom the Texas A&M Forest Service Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. “This new custom-built chassis allowed the department to have an updated brush truck that has already been out on several grass fire calls,” said Crandall Volunteer Fire […]

JOHNSON CITY, Texas — Johnson City Volunteer Fire Department used a cost-share grant from the Texas A&MForest Service Rural Volunteer Fire Department Program to help purchase a slip-on unit that will increase thedepartment’s capacity to save lives and property. A slip-on unit is a complete self-contained firefighting system designed for a pick-up truck or custom-built […]

BRECKENRIDGE, Texas — Hubbard Creek Volunteer Fire Department received a $20,000 grant from the TexasA&M Forest Service Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. The department used the funds to add a slip-on unit with a 500-gallon water tank and foam capability to a convertedexcess military vehicle, giving the truck new life as a firefighting machine. […]

Terrell Volunteer Fire Department used a cost share grant from the Texas A&M Forest Service Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program to help purchase a 2017 Freightliner water pumper/tender that will help to increase the department’s capacity to save lives and property in their community and surrounding area. The tender will be housed at the […]

Thanks to a grant from Texas A&M Forest Service Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program, Breckenridge Fire Department was able to equip a new water tender to better serve the rural home owners in their community. “Our department covers a large rural area where about 9,500 residents live,” said Breckenridge Fire Department Chief Calvin Chaney. […]

La Feria Volunteer Fire Department received a grant through the Texas A&M Forest Service Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. The cost share funds helpedto purchase three, new rescue tools, one of which is a combination tool that has already been used to help save a home. “We recently received a light weight, battery powered […]

Faught Volunteer Fire Department received a $200,000 cost share grant through the Texas A&M Forest Service Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. The funds were used to purchase a 2017 Kenworth water tender. “This is a new addition to our fleet and fills the need for a mobile water supply necessary to protect our rural […]

June 28, 2017 — McADOO, Texas — McAdoo Volunteer Fire Department purchased a 2017, F550 smallbrush truck with funding received from the Texas A&M Forest Service Rural Volunteer Fire DepartmentAssistance Program. The $100,000 cost share grant made it possible for the department to replace two older,less reliable trucks with an up-to-date wildland vehicle. “The majority […]

June 28, 2017 — EARLY, Texas — Early Community Firefighters received two cost-share grants through theTexas A&M Forest Service Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. The department used thefunds to purchase a much-needed slip-on unit and rescue equipment. A slip-on unit is a complete self-contained firefighting system designed for a pick-up truck or custom-builtvehicle platform […]

June 28, 2017 — SHELBYVILLE, Texas — Huxley Volunteer Fire Department received a $20,000 costshare grant through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program and a military truck that wasobtained through the Department of Defense Firefighter Property Program (DoD FFP). Both of the programsare administered through the Texas A&M Forest Service. The DoD FFP program […]

June 28, 2017 — KOSSE, Texas — Kosse Volunteer Fire Department received a cost share grant through the Texas A&M Forest Service Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. The funding was used to purchase a slip-on unit with a Compressed Air Foam System. “The slip-on has a 400-gallon water tank and a 10-gallon foam tank,” […]

June 28, 2017 — CISCO, Texas — Cisco Fire Department purchased a new slip-on unit with a $38,000 costshare grant from the Texas A&M Forest Service Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program.The department replaced a 10-year-old unit with one that is enhanced with a Compress Air Foam System(CAFS). A CAFS system is used in firefighting […]

As Texans from around the state make plans for the Nation’s Independence Day holiday, Texas A&M Forest Service urges vigilance with outdoor activities such as grilling, campfires and fireworks. According to the National Fire Protection Association, July 4th has the m

June 20, 2017 — KENNARD, Texas — Kennard Volunteer Fire Department recently celebrated receiving a grant from Texas A&M Forest Service by planting a tree and conducting a big check presentation. Regional Fire Coordinator Ricky Holbrook and local TFS staff presented a big check in recognition of the fire department accepting a grant award to […]

June 14, 2017 –SOUTH BEND, Texas — Eliasville Volunteer Fire Department used a Texas A&M forestService Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program grant to help purchase a slip-on unit for an excessBMY 5-ton cargo military truck. The firefighters gave the military vehicle a new life as a firefighting machine. They painted it as a non-militarycolor […]

June 12, 2017 — SANGER, Texas — Sanger Volunteer Fire Department replaced an aging brush truck with a2017 Dodge Ram 5500 Chassis with 4-wheel drive. The purchase was made using funding from a cost-sharegrant through the Texas A&M Forest Service Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. A brush truck is an initial-attack unit used to […]

June 12, 2017 — WHITNEY, Texas — Whitney Fire Department received an $18,700 cost-share grant topurchase a slip-on unit that was installed on a 5-ton excess military cargo vehicle, transforming it into afirefighting machine. The grant was through the Texas A&M Forest Service Rural Volunteer Fire DepartmentAssistance Program. A slip-on unit is a complete self-contained […]

June 12, 2017 — FORRESTON, Texas — Forreston Volunteer Fire Department enhanced its fire servicecapabilities with the help of a $20,000 cost share grant through the Texas A&M Forest Service Rural VolunteerFire Department Assistance Program. The funding went to purchase a slip-on unit that was added to a StewartStevenson’s excess military truck. A slip-on unit […]

June 6, 2017 — SCROGGINS, Texas — South Franklin County Volunteer Fire Department received a$20,000 grant from the Texas A&M Forest Service Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. Thedepartment used the funds to add a slip-on unit to a converted excess military vehicle, making it a service-readyfire apparatus. The Stewart Stevenson 2.5-ton cargo truck was […]

June 5, 2017 — EDEN, Texas — Eden Volunteer Fire Department purchased a new, large brush truck with a grant from the Texas A&M Forest Service Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. The new truck has a 2,500-gallon water tank, foam capability, scene lighting, and a 42-inch railing for the safety of the firefighters. Eden […]

June 5, 2017 — LAGUNA VISTA, Texas — Laguna Vista Volunteer Fire Department converted an excessmilitary vehicle into a machine capable of meeting the demands of wildland firefighting. The departmentvolunteers completed the conversion and prepped it for a new paint color. The Department of Defense Firefighter Property Program, overseen by the USDA Forest Service, providesexcess […]

Elmwood Volunteer Fire Department received a $13,900 grant fromTexas A&M Forest Service’s Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. The cost share grant wasused to purchase a new cutter and spreader. A cutter and spreader are essential recue tools when responding to an automobile accident where the victim istrapped in the vehicle. The tools give the […]

May 22, 2017 — CUERO, Texas  Cuero Volunteer Fire Department was the recipient of a $200,000 grantfrom Texas A&M Forest Service’s Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. The department usedthe funding to purchase a 2017 large brush truck that has 4-wheel-drive, automatic transmission, remote frontdeck gun and bumper sprayers. The primary purpose of a […]

May 22, 2017 — CLEVELAND, Texas — Plum Grove Volunteer Fire Department received funding fromTexas A&M Forest Service’s Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program for a 2017 truck chassis andslip-on unit. The department customized a brush truck specifically for their needs. According to Fire Chief Johnson, theywanted it to be an updated, efficient apparatus that […]

Divide Volunteer Fire Department received funding for a new pumper tender from Texas A&M Forest Service’s Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. The funding allowed the department to add a much needed dual purpose vehicle to its fleet to help meet the challenge of having a water supply to protect their community in times of […]

Honey Grove Volunteer Fire Department received funding to help purchase a new tender through the Texas A&M Forest Service’s Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. The new apparatus will help increase the department’s capacity to save lives and property. The growing demand for fire service in the Honey Grove rural area has created a need […]

May 11, 2017 — GRAND SALINE, Texas — Grand Saline Volunteer Fire Department received funding tohelp purchase a new slip-on unit through the Texas A&M Forest Service’s Rural Volunteer Fire DepartmentAssistance Program. A slip-on unit is a complete self-contained firefighting system designed for a pickup truck or custom-builtvehicle platform. It is used in wildland firefighting […]

On May 11, 2017 — NEVADA, Texas — Nevada Volunteer Fire Department received funding to help purchase anew slip-on unit through the Texas A&M Forest Service’s Rural Volunteer Fire Department AssistanceProgram. A slip-on unit is a complete self-contained firefighting system designed for a pickup truck or custom-builtvehicle platform. It is used in wildland firefighting as […]

Lake Rayburn Fire Department recently received funding for a new tender through the Texas A&M Forest Service’s Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. The new apparatus will help increase the department’s capacity to save lives and property. “This truck is replacing a 1993 vehicle that did not have any of the current features that make […]

May 4, 2017 — TEAGUE, Texas — Dew Volunteer Fire Department recently received a grant through theTexas A&M Forest Service’s Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. The funding was used topurchase a 2016 Ford 750 brush truck that will help increase their capacity to save lives and property. The new truck is equipped with a […]

May 4, 2017 — KENNARD, Texas — Kennard Volunteer Fire Department recently received funding fromTexas A&M Forest Service’s Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. The grant was used topurchase fire equipment to help protect lives and property. Kennard VFD purchased a slip-on unit with a 200-gallon water tank and a Compressed Air Foam System thathas […]

 East Lake Limestone Volunteer Fire Department recently received a$13,400 equipment grant from Texas A&M Forest Service’s Rural Volunteer Fire Department AssistanceProgram. “This funding was used to add vital pieces to our current hydraulic rescue equipment cache. The grant enabledus to have a full complement of rescue tools,” said East Lake Limestone VFD Assistant Chief […]

In Texas, the official state Arbor Day celebration is held in a different host city each year on the first Friday in November. Today, on National Arbor Day, Texas A&M Forest Service revealed that this year’s state celebration will be hosted in Grand Prairie, Texas.

April 27, 2017 — CROWELL, Texas — Crowell Volunteer Fire Department received a grant from the TexasA&M Forest Service’s Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. The department used the grant topurchase a 2015 International small brush truck. “This new truck will be one of our first out vehicles when we receive an emergency call,” said […]

April 19, 2017 — GROESBECK, Texas — Groesbeck Volunteer Fire Department received a $20,000 grantthrough the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program and a surplus military vehicle through theDepartment of Defense Firefighter Property Program, overseen by the USDA Forest Service, both programs areadministered by Texas A&M Forest Service. Launched in Texas in 2005, the DoD […]

April 18, 2017 — Ralls, Texas — The Ralls Volunteer Fire Department received a Stewart Stevenson 2.5-toncargo truck through the Department of Defense Firefighter Property Program and a $20,000 grant for a slip-onunit through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program, both programs administer through TexasA&M Forest Service. Since being established in 1917, the dedicated […]

April 18, 2017 — Valera, Texas — Valera Volunteer Fire Department received a $200,000grant through Texas A&M Forest Service’s Rural Volunteer Fire Department AssistanceProgram. This is the first factory-built fire truck in the history of the department. “The addition of this large brush truck brought our department into the 21st Century,” saidValera VFD Fire Chief […]

Slaton Volunteer Fire Department received a rescue equipment grantthrough the Texas A&M Forest Service’s Rural Volunteer Department Assistance Program. The funds wereused to replace a 30-year-old Jaws-of-Life and purchase a Ram. The term “Jaws of Life” refers to several types of hydraulic tools, which are used to pry open vehicles involvedin accidents when a victim […]

Keene Fire Rescue received a grant through the Texas A&M ForestService’s Rural Volunteer Fire Assistance Program. To help fill an equipment need crucial when responding toemergencies. The department received a variety of rescue equipment including a thermal imaging camera and telescopelighting. The thermal imaging camera detects heat given off by an object or person. It […]

April 17, 2017 — Canyon, Texas — The Canyon Volunteer Fire Department recently converted an excessmilitary vehicle into a multipurpose firefighting truck. The Stewart Stevenson 2.5-ton cargo truck was awarded through the Department of Defense FirefighterProperty Program, along with a $20,000 grant for a slip-on unit through the Rural Volunteer Fire DepartmentAssistance Program, both programs […]

April 3, 2017 — Zapata, Texas — The Zapata County Fire and EMS received a 5-ton cargo truck and a$20,000 grant to help create a firefighting vehicle that will help increase the department’s capacity to save livesand property. “This truck is vital to the Zapata County Fire & EMS,” said Texas A&M Forest Service Regional […]

April 3, 2017 — Hughes Springs, Texas — Hughes Springs Volunteer Fire Department recently received athe military excess vehicle through the Department of Defense Firefighter Property Program and a $20,000 grant for a slip-on unit through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program; both programs areadministered through Texas A&M Forest Service. The VFD converted the […]

April 3, 2017 — Lorenzo, Texas — Lorenzo Volunteer Fire Department received an excess military vehiclefrom the Department of Defense Firefighter Property Program and a $20,000 grant for a slip-on unit through theRural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program, both programs are administered through Texas A&MForest Service. Lorenzo VFD volunteers converted a Stewart Stevenson cargo truck […]

April 3, 2017 — Rio Hondo, Texas — Rio Hondo Volunteer Fire Department received an excess militaryHeavy Expanded Mobility Tactical Truck (HEMTT) through the Department of Defense Firefighter PropertyProgram administered by Texas A&M Forest Service. Rio Hondo VFD protects the town of Rio Hondo and the third-largest citrus and vegetable producer in theUnited States. This […]

Flat Volunteer Fire Department replaced a 1987 water tender with a 2017 Kenworth, capable of carrying 3000-gallons of water, thanks to a grant through Texas A&M Forest Service’s Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistant Program. “This new tender is so much easier to drive and operate,” said Flat VFD Fire Chief Chuck Porter. “One firefighter can […]

March 24, 2017 — Milford, Texas — Milford Volunteer Fire Department has been serving their communitysince 1898 during the time of the bucket brigade. They have always looked for ways to better serve theircommunity, and converting a military vehicle into a multipurpose firefighting machine adds greater capacity tothe department. Milford VFD received an excess Stewart […]

March 22, 2017 — Ennis, Texas — Telico Volunteer Fire Department enhanced its fire service capacity withthe help of a $200,000 grant through Texas A&M Forest Service’s Rural Volunteer Fire Department AssistanceProgram. “This new 2016 upgrade is replacing a 1982 Ford that was originally built by another fire department,” saidTelico VFD Fire Chief Van Fowler. […]

The Alabama Coushatta Indian Nation Volunteer Fire Department was recently awarded a $218,000 grant for the purchase of a new tender. The tender is a 2016 International chassis outfitted with a 1,500-gallon water tank, a 1,250-gallon per minute pump and a 30 gallon foam tank for the compressed air foam system (CAFS). Alabama Coushatta Indian […]

March 21, 2017 — Wall, Texas — Wall Volunteer Fire Department recently received a $200,000 grant topurchase a new large brush truck through Texas A&M Forest Service’s Rural Volunteer Fire DepartmentAssistance Program. “This new brush truck is replacing one that we had for about 12 years,” said Wall Volunteer Fire DepartmentFire Chief Dean Dickson. “The […]

Texas A&M Forest Service recently awarded a grant to Wolfe City Volunteer Fire Department for the purchase of a new tender. The funding was through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. A tender is a specialized firefighting apparatus designed for transporting water from a water source to a fire scene. “We will be using […]

Itasca Volunteer Fire Department recently replaced vital equipment with funding through Texas A&M Forest Service’s Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistant Program. The grant enabled the department to update essential breathing apparatus and other related equipment that allows firefighters to have breathable air in a dangerous or unhealthy atmosphere. “We recently received equipment that will permit […]

Texas A&M Forest Service recently awarded a grant to Jonesboro Volunteer Fire Department for a new water tender through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. The truck, a 2017 Kenworth with a 3,000-gallon water tank, is replacing a 20-year-old vehicle that the department built. The older truck could only carry 1,600 gallons of water. […]

The Lone Star State Incident Management Team from Texas A&M Forest Service has set up an incident coordination center in Merkel, Texas to support wildfire response in the western half of Texas.

The 2604 Volunteer Fire Department recently purchased new rescueequipment thanks to a grant through Texas A&M Forest Service’s Rural Volunteer Fire Department AssistanceProgram. The department purchased both new and replacement items with their grant. “We received several pieces of fire equipment but the two that are new to our department are the thermalimaging camera and […]

Lacy-Lakeview Fire Department received a $7,700 grant for the purchase of a forcible-entry training door. The funding was through Texas A&M Forest Service’s Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistant Program. “The forcible-entry training system will allow our volunteers to experience the proper technique on how to utilize the tools we have with less injuries to the […]

Medina Volunteer Fire Department received a grant through Texas A&M Forest Service’s Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. The cost share funding was used to purchase a 2016 water tender that is reported to be the largest in their region. “This new addition to our department is out of the class of anything our department […]

March 2, 2017 — Montague, Texas — Texas A&M Forest Service awarded a grant to Montague VolunteerFire Department for the purchase of a new brush truck. The funding was through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. “We retired a 1965 brush truck that we built out ourselves,” said Montague Volunteer Fire Department FireChief Tommy […]

March 2, 2017 — ROCKPORT, Texas — Texas A&M Forest Service awarded a $38,000 grant to RockportVolunteer Fire Department for the purchase of a new slip-on unit with a compressed air foam system. The grantwas through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. “This new slip-on unit is replacing a 35-year-old steel unit that was […]

Feb. 28, 2017 — Gatesville, Texas — Turnersville Fire Department received a grant from Texas A&M ForestService’s Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. The $200,000 cost-share grant was used topurchase a new large brush truck. “The addition of the new truck to the Turnersville Fire Department will help to increase the department’scapacity to protect the […]

Central Volunteer Fire Department was awarded a grant from TexasA&M Forest Service’s Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. The grant allowed the departmentto purchase new rescue equipment, including a Jaws of Life, spreader, cutter and compressor. “This equipment is a new addition to our department,” said Central VFD Assistant Fire Chief Oscar Rabago.“The rescue equipment […]

Troy Volunteer Fire Department received a $44,058 grant from the Texas A&M Forest Service’s Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. The cost share grant was used to purchase a multipurpose 2016 F550 truck chassis. According to the Troy Volunteer Fire Department Fire Chief Justin Jackson the addition of this dual function truck will help to […]

Texas A&M Forest Service awarded a $200,000 grant to Oglesby Volunteer Fire Department for the purchase of a new firefighting vehicle. The grant was through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. The new vehicle is a 2017 water tender, equipped with a 3,000-gallon water tank and a 20-gallon foam tank. “We are proud to […]

The city of Dallas has developed a plan to reduce risks and better prepare for wildfires. Dallas, a major metropolitan area in Texas, is the 53 rd city in the state to complete a Community Wildfire Protection Plan (CWPP).

With the Texas winter wildfire season upon us, officials at Texas A&M Forest Service are responding to an increase in wildfire frequency across the state. Yesterday, two Single Engine Air Tankers (SEATS) responding to a wildfire in Erath County were grounded due to the presence of a drone in the wildfire perimeter.

December 14, 2016 — DAWN, Texas — Texas A&M Forest Service awarded the Dawn Volunteer Fire Department a $200,000 grant to help assist with the purchase of a new firefighting vehicle. The new vehicle is a 2016 Freightliner and is replacing a 1971 GMC military vehicle that the department isretiring from their fleet. The truck […]

December 14, 2016 — ERATH COUNTY, Texas — Bluff Dale and Lingleville Volunteer Fire Departmentsare receiving grants through Texas A&M Forest Service’s Rural Volunteer Fire Department AssistanceProgram. Each department received a $200,000 grant used to purchase large brush trucks. Bluff Dale VFD’s brush truck is a 2017 International four-wheel drive outfitted with an 800 gallon […]

December 14, 2016 — HASLET, Texas — Texas A&M Forest Service recently awarded Haslet VolunteerFire Department with a $36,000 grant to purchase a new slip-on unit through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Grant Program. A slip-on unit is designed to become a fast initial-attack firefighting unit; durable and highly mobile. It is usedin wildland, […]

Covington Volunteer Fire Department recently received an excess military vehicle from the Department of Defense Firefighter Property Program and a $20,000 grant for a slip-on unit through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program; both programs are administered by Texas A& M Forest Service. Covington volunteers converted the two-and-a-half-ton military truck into a service-ready firefighting […]

Texas A&M Forest Service awarded a $188,355 grant toBlackwell Volunteer Fire Department for the purchase of a new firefighting vehicle through the RuralVolunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. The new vehicle is a 2016 Freightliner four-wheel drive chassis, outfitted with a 1,000 gallon water tank and apump with foam capability. The vehicle can serve in multiple […]

Texas A&M Forest Service recently awarded a $200,000 grant to the Childress Volunteer Fire Department for a new tender through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. The 2016 Freightliner, which will be a first out vehicle, is an update from a 22-year-old truck that required continuous maintenance. “The truck is equipped for structure fires, […]

Texas A&M Forest Service recently awarded a $200,000 grant to Somervell County Fire Department for a new tender through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. The grant was used to purchase a 2016 International Navistar five-man cab tender, outfitted with a 1,000-gallon poly water tank, a pump, 10” dump valve and a front bumper […]

A $118,000 grant courtesy of Texas A&M Forest Service’s Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program enabled the Tierra Linda Volunteer Fire Department to purchase a new brush truck. The new truck has a 400-gallon water tank and a compressed air foam system. The foam system allows firefighters to fight more fire with less water, as […]

December 12, 2016 — AGUA DULCE, Texas — Nueces Jim Wells County Emergency Service District No. 5received a retired military truck through the Department of Defense Firefighter Property Program, administeredby Texas A&M Forest Service. The 1990 Bowen-McLaughlin-York five-ton truck is a new addition to the department. “We painted the vehicle, put a new bumper, and […]

December 12, 2016 — NEW ULM, Texas — Frelsburg Volunteer Fire Department recently received a$20,000 grant through Texas A&M Forest Service’s Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program.The grant helped to purchase a slip-on unit to accompany a new Ford F-550 chassis purchased throughfundraising efforts. A slip-on unit is designed to become a fast initial-attack firefighting […]

December 12, 2016 — WOODSON, Texas — Woodson Volunteer Fire Department hasenhanced its fire service capabilities with the help of a $12,973 grant from Texas A&M ForestService’s Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. They purchased a new slip-onunit for one of the department’s existing trucks. A slip-on unit is designed to be a fast initial-attack […]

November 15, 2016 — RICHLAND, Texas — Richland Volunteer Fire Department recently received anexcess military vehicle, a Stewart and Stevenson two-and-a-half-ton cargo truck, from the Department ofDefense Firefighter Property Program, a program Texas A&M Forest Service administers. Richland volunteers had 180 days to convert the military truck into a service-ready firefighting apparatus. “Our department did […]

November 14, 2016 — CASTROVILLE, Texas — Texas A&M Forest Service recently awarded a $118,000grant to Castroville Volunteer Fire Company for a new brush truck through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. The truck, a 2015 Ford F-550 with a compressed air foam system, is a replacement for an outdated truck.The body of the […]

November 14, 2016 — ITASCA, Texas — Texas A&M Forest Service recently awarded a $41,355 grant tothe City Itasca Volunteer Fire Department for a new brush truck through the Rural Volunteer Fire DepartmentAssistance Program. The truck, a 2016 Ford F-450 Super Duty four-wheel drive, is a replacement for an older truck that was past thepoint […]

A $200,000 grant through Texas A&M Forest Service’s Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program enabled Roxton Volunteer Fire Department to purchase a new tender. “This tender is a new addition to our fleet and will be replacing a small tender that carried about half as much water,” said Roxton VFD Chief David Niblett. The 2017 […]

A $218,000 grant through Texas A&M Forest Service’s Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program recently enabled Kosse Volunteer Fire Department to purchase a new tender. The new truck has a 1,000-gallon water tank, 1,000 revolutions per minute power take off pump, and a Compressed Air Foam System. “The Compressed Air Foam System mixes foam with […]

October 25, 2016 – WACO, Texas – Hallsburg Volunteer Fire Department has enhanced its fireservice capabilities with the help of a $18,981 grant administered through Texas A&M ForestService’s Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. The grant was used to help purchase a slip-on unit that is a replacement for an older unit,according to Texas A&M […]

Three Texas fire departments were selected to receive more than $700,000 in grants from Texas A&M Forest Service through the Texas Intrastate Fire Mutual System on Oct. 19.

November 14, 2016 — ELSA, Texas: A new coat of paint and feature conversions by theElsa Volunteer Fire Department has repurposed a two-and-a-half-ton military truck into a newfire response vehicle. The Elsa VFD received the military cargo truck through the Department of Defense Firefighter Property Program. The program, in cooperation with Texas A&M Forest Service, […]

Texas fire departments received more than $15 million in grants Wednesday through the Texas A&M Forest Service Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program . I

October 4, 2016 — LUFKIN, Texas — Rivercrest Redland Volunteer Fire Department was recently awardeda military excess vehicle from the Department of Defense Firefighter Property Program administered by TexasA&M Forest Service. Recipients of this program are required to convert the vehicle into a service-ready unit within 180 days ofacquisition. “One stipulation was to paint the […]

Texas A&M Forest Service awarded a $200,000 grant to Turtle Creek Volunteer Fire Department through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. The grant was used to purchase a new tender, a first for the department. “Our previous tender only had the option of 1,800 gallons of water and that didn’t last very long when […]

October 4, 2016 — PALESTINE, Texas — Fire service capabilities in Anderson County have improved,courtesy of a $19,800 grant awarded to 84 East Volunteer Fire Department through Texas A&M Forest Service’sRural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. The VFD used the grant to purchase a slip-on unit for an existing truck. A slip-on unit is designed […]

September 20, 2016 — CASON, Texas — Cason Volunteer Fire Department recently received aid from twoassistance programs administered by Texas A&M Forest Service. The department received an excess military vehicle, a Bowen-McLaughlin-York five-ton transport truck, fromthe Department of Defense Firefighter Property Program. A requirement of the program is that the department turn the military vehicle […]

September 20, 2016 — FLAT, Texas — Flat Volunteer Fire Department recently received aid from twoprograms administered by Texas A&M Forest Service. The department received an excess military vehicle, a 1997 Steward and Stevenson M1078 two-and-a-half-tontruck from the Department of Defense Firefighter Property Program. Flat volunteers had 180 days to convert the military truck into […]

The Kirvin Volunteer Fire Department purchased an assortment ofrescue tools thanks to a grant through the Texas A&M Forest Service Rural Volunteer Fire DepartmentAssistance Program. “The equipment that they received will help the department increase their capacity to better serve theircommunity and surrounding area, said Matthew Schlaefer, Texas A&M Forest Service Regional FireCoordinator. “Some of […]

September 14, 2016 — BIGFOOT, Texas — Bigfoot Volunteer Fire Department was recently awarded a military excess vehicle from the Department of Defense Firefighter Property Program administered by Texas A&M Forest Service. The vehicle is a 1991 Bowen-McLaughlin-York M925A2 five-ton transport truck. “This is the first five-ton federal firefighter property vehicle our department has ever […]

September 14, 2016 — BROOKESMITH, Texas  Brookesmith Volunteer Fire Department recently received a five-ton Bowen-McLaughlin-York military cargo truck from Texas A&M Forest Service as part of the Department of Defense Firefighter Property Program. “When we received this military vehicle, part of the requirement was to paint it a different color. We also added a […]

Texas A&M Forest Service recently awarded a $200,000 grant to Randall County Volunteer Fire Department for a new water tender through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. A tender, also known as a tanker in some regions, is a specialized firefighting apparatus designed to transport water from the water source to the fire. This […]

September 13, 2016 — LOVELADY, Texas — Texas A&M Forest Service recently awarded WeldonVolunteer Fire Department with a $17,635 grant to purchase a new slip-on unit, through the Rural VolunteerFire Department Assistance Grant Program. A slip-on unit is a complete, self-contained firefighting apparatus designed for a pickup truck or custom-builtvehicle platforms. It is intended to […]

A $200,000 grant through Texas A&M Forest Service’s Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program enabled Greenwood Slidell Volunteer Fire Department to purchase a new tanker. The truck is a 2016 Freightliner M2-106 tandem axle chassis wet-side tanker with high-side compartments. It can carry 3,000-gallons of water, has a 500-gallons-per-minute pump, and a 30-gallon foam tank. […]

September 13, 2016 — FALFURRIAS, Texas — The Falfurrias Volunteer Fire Department hasenhanced its fire service capabilities with the help of a $16,560 grant administered through theTexas A&M Forest Service Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. The grant went toward purchasing a new slip-on unit to replace an older one that was convertedfertilizer tank, according […]

September 13, 2016 — ANNA, Texas — Texas A&M Forest Service recently awarded Westminster VolunteerFire Department with a $19,038 grant to purchase a new slip-on unit through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Grant Program. A slip-on unit is designed to become a fast initial-attack firefighting unit; durable, flexible, and highly mobile. Itis used in […]

September 6, 2016 — NOCONA, Texas — Nocona Rural Volunteer Fire Department was recently awarded a$200,000 grant to help purchase a large brush truck through the Texas A&M Forest Service Rural VolunteerFire Department Assistance Program. The new truck is a 2016 Ford F750 four-wheel-drive with an 850-gallon water tank, remotely operated bumperturret, and a variety […]

Landowners in many parts of Texas have an opportunity to receive reimbursement for the cost of having a prescribed burn conducted on their property. This September, Texas A&M Forest Service is accepting applications for three separate grants to assist private property owners with r

August 25, 2016 — GILMER, Texas — Texas A&M Forest Service recently awarded a $100,000 grant toGilmer Volunteer Fire Department for a new brush truck through the Rural Volunteer Fire DepartmentAssistance Program. The truck, a 2016 Ford F-550, is replacing a smaller 1985 pickup that lacked dependability. “The new truck has a 400-gallon poly water […]

August 25, 2016 — SAINT JO, Texas — Texas A&M Forest Service recently awarded a $200,000 grant toSaint Jo Volunteer Fire Department for a new brush truck through the Rural Volunteer Fire DepartmentAssistance Program. The truck, a 2016 Kenworth tanker, is a replacement for the department’s 16-year-old Ford tender. The new truck has a 1,250-gallon-per-minute […]

August 25, 2016 — SANGER, Texas — Sanger Volunteer Fire Department recently upgraded one of theirtrucks with a $18,000 slip-on unit grant through Texas A&M Forest Service’s Rural Volunteer Fire DepartmentAssistance Grant Program. A slip-on unit is a complete, self-contained firefighting apparatus designed for a pickup truck or custom-builtvehicle platforms. It is intended to become […]

A $200,000 grant from Texas A&M Forest Service’s Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program enabled South Polk County Volunteer Fire Department to purchase a new tanker. “This truck is a new addition for us,” said South Polk Co. VFD Chief Chris Moehlmann. “The new tanker will be able to provide more water to fire scenes […]

August 9, 2016 — FERRIS, Texas — Texas A&M Forest Service recently awarded a $96,675 grant to FerrisFire Department for a new brush truck through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program.The truck, a 2016 Ford F-550, is a replacement for a smaller 12-year-old truck. “The old truck had a smaller water tank and no […]

August 9, 2016 — PANHANDLE, Texas — A five-ton Bowen-McLaughlin-York military cargo truck wastransformed into an emergency response vehicle by the Panhandle Volunteer Fire Department. They painted theunit and outfitted it with a large water tank, dump tank, and standalone pump. “We’re really proud of this truck,” Fire Chief Dustin Tow of the Panhandle VFD […]

August 9, 2016 — FRIONA, Texas — Rhea-Hollene Volunteer Fire Department received a retired militaryvehicle from Texas A&M Forest Service as part of the Department of Defense Firefighter Property Program. The 1991 Bowen-McLaughlin-York M931A2 five-ton truck is replacing a 1967 five-ton the departmentreceived from Texas A&M Forest Service years ago. “The old truck was having […]

August 8, 2016 — CAMERON, Texas — Cameron Volunteer Fire Department recently received aid from twoassistance programs offered by Texas A&M Forest Service. The department received an excess military vehicle, a 1998 Steward and Stevenson M1078 two-and-a-half tontruck from the Department of Defense Firefighter Property Program, which Texas A&M Forest Serviceadministers. Cameron volunteers had 180 […]

August 8, 2016 — Victoria, Texas — Victoria County Fire Department enhanced its fire service capabilities.with the help of an $18,000 grant administered through Texas A&M Forest Service’s Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. The grant went toward purchasing a new slip-on unit for one of the department’s existing trucks. A slip-on unit is designed […]

August 8, 2016 — PETROLIA, Texas — Petrolia Volunteer Fire Department recently added a new slip-on unit to one of their existing wildland fire-fighting trucks. Acquisition of the unit was made possiblethrough a $20,000 Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance grant administered by Texas A&MForest Service. A slip-on unit is designed to enhance a fire department’s […]

Log Cabin Volunteer Fire Department received a retired military vehicle from Texas A&M Forest Service as part of the Department of Defense Firefighter Property Program. Likely a refueler in its previous life, the 1989 Oshkosh Defense Heavy Expanded Mobility Tactical Truck (HEMTT) M978A4 is a 2,500-gallon tanker known in the military community for advanced suspension […]

Steele Creek Acres Volunteer Fire Department recently purchased newrescue equipment thanks to a $10,623 grant through Texas A&M Forest Service’s Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. The equipment included self-contained breathing apparatuses (SCBA) and 5,100 lumen standing flashlights. “The SCBAs are a source of air for the firefighter when searching in a smoke-filled structure,” explained […]

July 26, 2016 — SALADO, Texas — Texas A&M Forest Service recently awarded a $200,000 grant to SaladoVolunteer Fire Department for a new brush truck through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department AssistanceProgram. The truck, a 2016 International, is replacing a smaller 20-year-old department vehicle.“The new brush truck is larger and has more options that make […]

Willow City Volunteer Fire and Rescue has enhanced its fire service capabilities with the help of grants totaling $218,000 administered through Texas A&M Forest Service’s Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. The grants helped purchase a new tender truck and a slip-on unit for one of the department’s existing trucks. “This tender is a replacement […]

July 20, 2016 — WHEELER, Texas — Texas A&M Forest Service recently awarded Kelton Volunteer Fire Department a $19,800 grant to purchase a new slip-on unit through the Rural Volunteer Fire DepartmentAssistance Grant Program. A slip-on unit is designed to become a fast initial-attack firefighting unit. It is used in wildland firefighting aswell as structure […]

La Rosita Volunteer Fire Department recently purchasednew rescue equipment thanks to a $10,437 grant through Texas A&M Forest Service’s Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. The department purchased both new and replacement items with their grant. “The self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) tanks that we acquired are replacing ones that are expiring thismonth,” said La Rosita […]

The Junction Volunteer Fire Department recently purchased rescuetools using a $15,000 grant through Texas A&M Forest Service’s Rural VFD Assistance Program. Rescue tools included a combination cutter and spreader, a ram and rope rescue equipment. The cutter and spreader is a replacement for an older model that will now be moved to a backup response […]

Cheek Volunteer Fire Department recently received a $12,354 grant for rescue equipment through Texas A&M Forest Service’s Rural Volunteer Fire Department AssistanceProgram. Among the new equipment purchased through the cost-share program were Jaws of Life, a spreader and a ram;all of which are a first for the department. Cheek VFD Chief Kenneth Duhon said that […]

The Dilley Volunteer Fire Department recently received a $15,000 grant for the purchase of new thermal imaging cameras through Texas A&M Forest Service’s Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. A new addition to the department, the forward looking infrared (FLIR) cameras use a thermographiccamera that senses infrared radiation. Thermal cameras are valuable tools when finding […]

The Lone Star Family Health Center has awarded Texas A&M Forest Service Urban District Forester John Warner an annual community award recognizing his advocacy of children in nature.

July 7, 2016 — RICHLAND SPRINGS, Texas — Richland Springs Volunteer Fire Department now has anew brush truck thanks to a $100,000 grant through Texas A&M Forest Service’s Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. “This type of engine will help Richland Springs increase their defense against wildfires in their community andsurrounding rural areas,” Texas A&M […]

The community of Ransom Canyon has taken action to better protect their homes and properties from wildfire.

July 1, 2016 — NEWCASTLE, Texas — Newcastle Volunteer Fire Department recently added a new brushtruck to its fleet thanks to a $100,000 grant through Texas A&M Forest Service. The truck, a Dodge Ram 5500, is a replacement for a smaller, two-wheel drive vehicle the department hadequipped with a homemade tank and foam unit that […]

July 1, 2016 — EDOM, Texas — Edom Volunteer Fire Department recently received aid from two differentassistance programs administered by Texas A&M Forest Service. The department received an excess military vehicle, a 2008 Oshkosh M978A HEMTT tanker, from theDepartment of Defense Firefighter Property Program. Edom volunteers had 180 days to convert the five-ton military truck […]

July 1, 2016 – DODD CITY, Texas – Dodd City Volunteer Fire Department has enhanced its fire servicecapabilities with the help of a $19,840 grant administered by the Texas A&M Forest Service. The grant went toward purchasing a slip-on unit for a recently acquired truck. “The TFS grant covered the slip-on unit, and our department […]

Texas A&M Forest Service awarded the Tolar Volunteer Fire Department a$12,354 grant to help them purchase a new truck chassis. The truck, a 2016 Ford F350 four-wheel drive, is replacing a 2002 brush truck with basic equipment andrequired frequent maintenance. Members of the department are working to transform the truck into a firefighting apparatus. “We […]

Two area fire departments received grants from Texas A&MForest Service’s Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. Burkburnett Volunteer Fire Department received a grant for new rescue equipment, while the City of GrahamFD received a grant for a slip-on unit. A slip-on unit is designed to enhance a fire department’s firefighting capabilities. The slip-on unit is […]

Rising Star Volunteer Fire Department recently received a grantfrom Texas A&M Forest Service to update its extrication tools that were over 15 years old. The most valuable assets of the new tools are reliability and that they require only the minimal number ofresponders to operate. “We are adding a new cutter, spreader, pump and rescue […]

Rio Vista Volunteer Fire Department now has new rescue equipmentthanks to a $11,709 grant through Texas A&M Forest Service’s Rural Volunteer Fire Department AssistanceProgram. “We received various types of rescue equipment, most of which is new to our department and will be a greatbenefit to our community and surrounding area,” Rio Vista VFD Chief Gail […]

Hudspeth County Emergency Service District was awarded a grant from Texas A&M Forest Service’s Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program allowing the district to purchase new rescue equipment, including a Jaws of Life, spreader and cutter. “We applied for this grant because we were having a lot of problems with our hydraulic pump on our […]

June 30, 2016 — HOLLY LAKE RANCH, Texas — A $218,000 grant from Texas A&M Forest Service’sRural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program has enabled the Holly Lake Volunteer Fire Department topurchase a new brush truck to help cover nearly 60 square miles of response area. The new truck has a 1,000-gallon water tank and a […]

June 30, 2016 — CISCO, Texas — Cisco Volunteer Fire Department recently received a $118,000 grant topurchase a small brush truck through Texas A&M Forest Service’s Rural Volunteer Fire Department AssistanceProgram. The 2016 truck contains a compressed air foam system and lots of storage space for firefighting and rescueequipment, something the 32-year-old truck it is […]

June 30, 2016 — CORRIGAN, Texas — A converted military vehicle is giving the Corrigan Volunteer Fire Department some extra firefighting power. The VFD received the vehicle from the Department of Defense Firefighter Property Program, administered byTexas A&M Forest Service. The Corrigan volunteers had 180 days to convert the five-ton military truck into a service-ready […]

June 30, 2016 — CALL, Texas — Trout Creek Volunteer Fire Department recently received a $100,000 grantthrough Texas A&M Forest Service’s Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program to help purchase asmall brush truck. “This new vehicle is a F550 super single, four-wheel drive with 40-inch tires and a turret on the front bumper,”Trout Creek VFD […]

June 21, 2016 — HILLSBORO, Texas — Hill County lives and property are now better protected due torecent equipment additions to area fire departments. Lakeview Volunteer Fire Department and the Bynum Volunteer Fire Department both received five-ton militaryexcess vehicles through the Department of Defense Firefighter Property Program, which is administered byTexas A&M Forest Service. Both […]

Volunteer fire departments in Claude and White Deer are the recipients of grants from the Texas A&M Forest Service’s Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. The Claude Volunteer Fire Department in Armstrong County received a $200,000 grant for the purchase of a new tender, a fire truck used to supply water to a scene. The […]

June 21, 2016 — SIMMS, Texas —Texas A&M Forest Service awarded a $100,000 grant for the purchase ofa new brush truck to Simms District Volunteer Fire Department through the Rural Volunteer Fire DepartmentAssistance Program. “Our department hasn’t had a new brush truck since 1974, and our old trucks were always having mechanicalproblems,” Simms District VFD […]

Texas A&M Forest Service awarded a $200,000 grant to Ozona Volunteer Fire Department for a tender through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. “It is replacing a 1984 oil field type tender,” Ozona VFD Chief Brian Morrow said. “This new tender has a fire pump, stabilization for better control, better brakes and a lot […]

June 9, 2016 — GORDONVILLE, Texas — Gordonville Volunteer Fire Department received a retiredmilitary vehicle from Texas A&M Forest Service as part of the Department of Defense Firefighter PropertyProgram. The two-and-a-half-ton Stewart Stevenson military truck is a new addition to the department. “We painted it a nonmilitary color, added emergency lighting, and the slip-on unit […]

June 8, 2016 — GALENA PARK, Texas — A $218,000 grant from Texas A&M Forest Service’s Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program enabled Galena Park Volunteer Fire Department to purchase a new tender. “This truck will provide much needed support in their area as it will improve water availability and the new [compressed air foam] […]

The Stratford Volunteer Fire Department purchased an assortmentof rescue tools including jacks, a windshield cutter, a rescue saw and lifting bags. This was made possiblethrough a $15,000 grant from Texas A&M Forest Service’s Rural VFD Assistance Program. “The equipment jacks, windshield cutter and rescue saw are all new additions to our department,” StratfordVFD fire Chief […]

The Dawson Volunteer Fire Department recently received a $6,700grant for a new thermal imaging camera through Texas A&M Forest Service’s Rural Volunteer Fire DepartmentAssistance Program. “This is a new addition to our department,” Dawson VFD Assistant Chief Ronnie Hogue said. “We have nothad to use the camera just yet, but it is ready for use […]

June 7, 2016 — MEXIA, Texas — A five-ton Bowen-McLaughlin-York military cargo truck was transformedinto an emergency response vehicle by the Lake Mexia Volunteer Fire Department. They stripped its camouflagepaint and outfitted it with a 600-gallon tank, standalone pump, and fresh coats of white and pink paint. Texas A&M Forest Service Regional Fire Coordinator Matthew […]

June 7, 2016 — PENELOPE, Texas — Penelope Volunteer Fire Department was recently awarded a militaryexcess vehicle from the Department of Defense Firefighter Property Program and an HB2604 grant, bothadministered by Texas A&M Forest Service. Recipients of the military vehicle are required to convert it into a service-ready unit within 180 days ofacquisition. “Our volunteers […]

June 6, 2016 — CORSICANA, Texas — Mildred Volunteer Fire Department recently purchased a slip-on unitfor one of the department’s wildland firefighting trucks with a grant administered by Texas A&M ForestService. “This slip-on unit will enhance the department’s capabilities by having an updated unit that has performedabove expectations,” Troy Case, Texas A&M Forest Service District […]

Granger Volunteer Fire Department recently purchased a new CascadeAir Breathing System thanks to a grant from Texas A&M Forest Service’s Rural Volunteer Fire DepartmentAssistance Program. The system, a first for the department, is an arrangement of large high pressure gas cylinders and a compressor.Together they are used to fill the smaller self-contained breathing apparatuses, often […]

Briggs Volunteer Fire Department recently received a $15,000 grant for rescue equipment through Texas A&M Forest Service’s Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. The new equipment purchased through the cost-share program includes a hydraulic cutter, spreader, struts,jacks, and power supplies. “This new equipment is replacing 10-year-old second-hand equipment,” Briggs VFD Chief Landon Renfro said. The […]

Clyde Volunteer Fire Department recently purchased new rescueequipment with a $8,493 grant through Texas A&M Forest Service’s Rural Volunteer Fire DepartmentAssistance Program. Among the new equipment purchased through the cost-share program were vehicle stabilization and rescuestruts. “These rescue and stabilization tools are new additions and we will use them along with our Jaws of Life,”Clyde […]

Abbott Volunteer Fire Department increased their rescue andfirefighting capabilities with a $11,555 grant provided by Texas A&M Forest Service. The department used thegrant to purchase a ram, and a combination cutter and spreader, along with necessary accessories such aschargers and batteries. Texas A&M Forest Service Regional Fire Coordinator Matthew Schlaefer said the equipment is in […]

Muleshoe Volunteer Fire Department recentlypurchased new stabilization equipment thanks to a grant from Texas A&M Forest Service’sRural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. Stabilization equipment helps to steady a vehicle before extrication of an accident victim canbegin. The new addition is a first of its kind for the department. “We haven’t ever had this type of […]

May 25, 2016 — MATADOR, Texas — A $200,000 grant from Texas A&M Forest Service’s Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program enabled Matador – Motley County Volunteer Fire Department to purchase a new tender. A water tender is a specialized firefighting apparatus designed for transporting water from a water source to a fire scene. “This […]

Hainesville Volunteer Fire Department received a new truck as part of the Department of Defense Firefighter Property Program, administered by the Texas A&M Forest Service. The truck, a 1990 M923A five-ton military transport vehicle, had to be converted into a service-ready unit within 180 days of acquisition by the department. “We removed the troop carrier […]

May 17, 2016 – ABILENE, Texas – A new coat of paint and some feature conversions by thePotosi Volunteer Fire Department has repurposed a two-and-a-half-ton military truck into anew fire response vehicle. The Potosi VFD repainted the 1994 Stewart Stevenson M1078 military cargo truck, then hademergency lighting, warning equipment, radios, and extra maintenance equipment. “We […]

May 17, 2016 — BRECKENRIDGE, Texas — Wayland Volunteer Fire Department received an excessmilitary vehicle through the Department of Defense Firefighter Property Program to convert into a firefightingapparatus. The program is administered by the Texas A&M Forest Service A refueler in its previous life, the 2008 Oshkosh Defense Heavy Expanded Mobility Tactical Truck M978A4 isa […]

May 17, 2016 — GONZALES, Texas — A $120,500 grant from Texas A&M Forest Service’s Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program enabled Gonzales Fire Department to purchase a new tanker recently. “This truck is a replacement,” Gonzales FD Chief Keith Schmidt said. “We had a truck that was originally built and paid for by [Texas […]

May 17, 2016 — ROCKPORT, Texas — Lamar Volunteer Fire Department has enhanced itsfire service capabilities with the help of a $20,000 grant administered by Texas A&M ForestService. The grant, part of Texas A&M Forest Service’s Rural Volunteer Fire Department AssistanceThe program went toward purchasing a new slip-on unit for one of the department’s existing […]

Sundown Volunteer Fire Department recently received a $15,000grant for rescue equipment through Texas A&M Forest Service’s Rural Volunteer Fire Department AssistanceProgram. The new equipment purchased through the cost-share program includes vehicle stabilization and rescue struts, awindshield cutter and a rescue saw. “The equipment will allow for greater safety for the rescuers and the victim,” Sundown […]

Teague Volunteer Fire Department recently received a $10,817 grant for rescue equipment through Texas A&M Forest Service’s Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. The new equipment purchased through the cost-share program includes a power plant for the Jaws of Life,rescue struts, a ram, a windshield cutter and windshield removal tools. “This is a great looking […]

The Rosston Volunteer Fire Department recently received a grant for the purchase of a new thermal imaging camera through Texas A&M Forest Service’s Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. A first for the department, the camera has heat sensing technology and can help when crossing rough terrain in low- or no-light, locating missing people during […]

Whitton Rural Volunteer Fire Department increases their capabilities bypurchasing a new thermal imaging camera with an $11,000 grant from Texas A&M Forest Service. “This is a first for us. We needed something like this so many times to detect hot spots in structures and aid insearch and rescue,” Whitton Rural VFD fire Chief David Fretwell […]

May 16, 2016 — DETROIT, Texas — The Detroit Volunteer Fire Department recentlyreceived a retired 2005 Stewart and Stevenson M1083A five-ton military cargo truck through theDepartment of Defense Firefighter Property Program, which is administered by Texas A&MForest Service. Recipients of this program are required to convert the received military excess vehicle into aservice-ready unit within […]

May 10, 2016 — GOLINDA, Texas — The Golinda VFD recently received a $20,000 grant from TexasA&M Forest Service to purchase a new slip-on unit. “This new slip-on replaces one of the original units that we got when our department was established in1983,” Golinda VFD Chief Quincy Lee said. “This unit has two extra attack […]

May 16, 2016 — FULTON, Texas — Fulton Volunteer Fire Department has enhanced its fireservice capacities with the help of a $20,000 grant administered by Texas A&M Forest Service. The grant, part of Texas A&M Forest Service’s Rural Volunteer Fire Department AssistanceProgram went toward purchasing a new slip-on unit for one of the department’s existing […]

Ellis County Emergency Service District One was recently awarded a $15,000 grant for the purchase of rescue equipment, as part of the Rural Volunteer Fire DepartmentAssistance Program, administered by Texas A&M Forest Service. The grant was used to purchase rescue and extrication equipment that both replaces outdated equipment, and adds to the ESD’s rescue capabilities. […]

Dublin Volunteer Fire Department received a $15,000 grant throughTexas A&M Forest Service’s Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. The grant was used topurchase new rescue and safety equipment. “This equipment is new to our department. We received a variety of rescue equipment but we also receivedsafety gear to help with traffic control when on an […]

A task force with Texas A&M Forest Service began a hazardous fuels reduction training project which should prove to benefit the citizens of Childress. On May 3, the crew began cleaning up the area surrounding an overgrown section of Fair Park. Work includes thinning smal

May 9, 2016 — TAYLOR, Texas — Taylor Volunteer Fire Department was recently awarded a military excessvehicle from the Department of Defense Firefighter Property Program administered by Texas A&M ForestService. Recipients of this program are required to convert the vehicle into a service-ready unit within 180 days ofacquisition. “When we received the vehicle it was […]

Over the weekend a combination of lightning, dry vegetation and elevated temperatures led to a wildfire in Jeff Davis County. The area experienced temperatures in the upper 80s, sustained winds of 15 – 25 mph and low relative humidity. This critical fire weather played a

Having multiuse, reliable equipment is extremely valuable to a volunteer fire department. With a $20,000 grant from Texas A&M Forest Service, Blum Volunteer Fire Department was able to purchase a new slip-on unit for one of its trucks. A slip-on unit is a highly mobile, self-contained apparatus used as an initial attack unit to fight […]

May 3, 2016 — OAKWOOD, Texas — East Leon County Volunteer Fire Department recently received a$20,000 grant to purchase a new slip-on unit through Texas A&M Forest Service and the Rural VFD AssistanceProgram. A slip-on unit is a durable apparatus designed to become a fast initial-attack firefighting unit. It is used inwildland firefighting as well […]

Utopia Volunteer Fire Department recently received a $15,000 grant to purchase rescue equipment through Texas A&M Forest Service’s Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. With a service area of 314 square miles that includes two state parks, the rescue equipment, which includes a thermal imaging camera increases the department’s capacity to serve the community. “Our […]

Punkin-Evergreen Volunteer Fire Department increased theirrescue and firefighting capabilities with a $14,777 grant provided by Texas A&M Forest Service through theRural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program.. The department used the grant to purchase new rescueequipment such as a thermal imaging camera, a hydraulic compressor, Jaws of Life, swift water rescue gear,and more. Texas A&M Forest […]

May 2, 2016 — TERRELL, Texas — Texas A&M Forest Service recently awarded College Mound VolunteerFire Department a $20,000 grant to purchase a new slip-on unit through the Rural Volunteer Fire DepartmentAssistance Grant Program. A slip-on unit is an apparatus built to meet the demands of the fire service and is easily mounted on the […]

The Ander-Weser Volunteer Fire Department purchased an assortment ofrescue tools including a thermal imaging camera and stabilization and lift equipment. This was made possiblethrough a grant from Texas A&M Forest Service and the Rural VFD Assistance Program. “The thermal imaging camera and stabilization and lift equipment are new additions to our department,” Ander-Weser VFD Training […]

The Boonsville/Balsora Volunteer Fire Department recentlyreceived a $15,000 grant for rescue equipment, including new thermal imaging cameras, through Texas A&MForest Service’s Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. A first for the department, the decision to apply for the cost-share grant was based in part on a recentfirefighting experience with a mutual aid department. “We recently […]

Texas A&M Forest Service continues its commitment to TexasVolunteer Fire Departments. The Timber Lakes VFD recently received a rescue equipment grant through theRural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program to help increase the department’s potential to save lives. The grant was used to purchase new rescue and extrication equipment such as a spreader, cutter, pump, ram,ram […]

April 29, 2016 — COLD SPRING, Texas — A $20,000 grant was recently awarded to Cape Area VolunteerFire Department to purchase a new slip-on unit. A slip-on unit is a self-contained firefighting rig designed to slide into or onto the flatbed of a truck. It includeshose, water tank, pump, and an engine to drive the […]

April 25, 2016 — BARTLETT, Texas — Bartlett Volunteer Fire Department received a 1990 BMY militarytransport truck through the Department of Defense Firefighter Property Program, a skid unit thanks to a $20,000a grant from Texas A&M Forest Service’s Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program and a bumperturret which was donated by Mason Turkey Farms. “We […]

April 25, 2016 — FLORENCE, Texas — Thanks to a $118,000 grant from Texas A&M Forest Service, Florence Volunteer Fire Department improved their capacity to serve the community by purchasing a new 2015 Ford F-550 small brush truck equipped with a slip-on unit and a compressed air foam system. The compressed air foam system delivers […]

April 25, 2016 — WELLS, Texas — Wells Volunteer Fire Department purchased a new smallbrush truck with a Compressed Air Foam System thanks to a grant from Texas A&M ForestService. Wells VFD has an 88 square mile service area and 90 percent of their calls are for woodland orgrass fires. This new 2016 Ford F-150 […]

April 18, 2016 — POLLOCK, Texas — Central Volunteer Fire Department received a 1993 StewartStephenson excess military vehicle to convert into a firefighting apparatus through the Department of DefenseFirefighter Property Program, which is administered by Texas A&M Forest Service. Recipients of this program are required to convert the vehicle into a service-ready unit within 180 […]

April 18, 2016 — PALESTINE, Texas — Battle worn and coated with desert sand, the newest member of thePalestine Southside Volunteer Fire Department was greeted with cheers when it rolled into the department lastJune. The 1994 Stewart and Stevenson M1078 two-and-a-half ton military cargo truck was awarded to the PalestineSouthside VFD through the Department of […]

April 14, 2016 – HIDALGO, Texas – A new coat of paint and some feature conversions by the Hidalgo Fire Department have repurposed a 5-ton military truck into a new fire response vehicle. The Hidalgo FD received the military cargo truck through the Department of Defense Firefighter PropertyProgram, which sends retired military vehicles into the […]

April 14, 2016 — DUMAS, Texas — With a new coat of paint and some feature conversions by the CityDumas Fire Department has repurposed a tanker military truck into a new fire response vehicle. The City of Dumas FD received the military cargo truck through the Department of Defense Firefighter Property Program, which puts retired […]

April 14, 2016 — CLAUDE, Texas — Weighing in at more than 22,000 pounds and standing over 9-feet-tall,the newest member of the Claude Volunteer Fire Department is poised to do its part in the war on fire. A veteran in its own right, the 1990 BMY M923A2 military cargo truck was awarded to the Claude […]

April 14, 2016 — MARLIN, Texas — A new coat of paint and some feature conversions by the MarlinVolunteer Fire Department have repurposed a five-ton military truck into a new fire response vehicle. The Marlin VFD received the military cargo truck through the Department of Defense Firefighter PropertyProgram, which sends retired military vehicles into the […]

The Muenster Volunteer Fire Department has a new truck, thanks to a $44,873 grant from Texas A&M Forest Service. “This truck will help update the Muenster VFD fleet, increasing their capacity to better serve the community and surrounding areas” said Texas A&M Forest Service Regional Fire Coordinator John Fugitt. The truck is a 2016 Ford […]

March 31, 2016 — NEW SUMMERFIELD, Texas — New Summerfield Volunteer FireThe department has enhanced its capabilities with the help of an $18,000 grant administered byTexas A&M Forest Service. The grant, part of Texas A&M Forest Service’s Rural Volunteer Fire Department AssistanceThe program went toward purchasing a new slip-on unit for one of the department’s […]

March 31, 2016 – Clayton, Texas – Texas A&M Forest Service recently awarded the ClaytonVolunteer Fire Department a $17,800 grant to help pay for a brand new slip-on unit. The slip-on unit is a cost-effective tool that is very versatile, compact, and self-contained. Theapparatus will fit onto most pickup trucks or flatbed trucks and can […]

For a volunteer fire department that services approximately 4,000 people, having updated fire and rescue equipment is imperative. With the help of a grant from Texas A&M Forest Service, the Newark Volunteer Fire Department was able to purchase a new slip-on unit for one of its trucks. A slip-on unit is a highly mobile, self-contained […]

 Potter County Fire and Rescue recently received a$15,000 grant through Texas A&M Forest Service. The grant was used to purchase new rescuetools and replace outdated items such as a thermal imaging camera. The camera “is a replacement for a 1980s model,” said Fire Chief Richard Lake. “The [new]camera has an extended battery life and […]

Tucker VFD increases their capacity to perform rescueswith a grant from Texas A&M Forest Service. “Tucker VFD is located on the south east portion of Anderson County,” said Texas A&M ForestService District Fire Coordinator Troy Case. “With the widening of the highway in theircommunity and the amount of traffic this particular highway receives, the new […]

March 1, 2016 — Desdemona, Texas — Desdemona Volunteer Fire Department received a grant for $15,000 from Texas A&M Forest Service. They purchased fire suppression equipment that has greater pumping capacity and will help increase their potential to protect life and property in their community and surrounding area. “The new pump and 500-gallon tank are […]

March 14, 2016 — Claude, Texas  Washburn Community Association Volunteer Fire Department has anew large brush truck to respond to emergencies, thanks to a $200,000 grant from Texas A&M Forest Service. The VFD has a response area of 234 square miles and the vehicle has been equipped with a variety of tools thatwill support […]

Doss Volunteer Fire Department improved both its equipment andits capabilities with the help of a $15,000 grant from Texas A&M Forest Service. The cost share grant helped the VFD purchase several new items including a Rapid Intervention Teambag, a cascade system and a thermal imager. “This equipment is a new addition that will support many […]

March 10, 2016 — San Antonio, Texas — Leon Springs Volunteer Fire Department is nowbetter equipped to serve and protect its community and the surrounding area after adding a new slip-on unit. The department used a $12,300 grant from Texas A&M Forest Service to make theaddition possible. “The new unit will increase our firefighting capabilities,” […]

March 9, 2016 — Brookston, Texas — Brookston Volunteer Fire Department recently added a solidfirefighting machine to its fleet. It’s 6×6, rear tandem dual tires, Cummins engine and automatic transmissionhelp make this truck dependable when trekking rough ground. The 1990 BMY cargo vehicle was made possible through the Department of Defense Firefighter PropertyProgram administered by […]

March 8, 2016 — Cleveland, Texas — Bear Creek Volunteer Fire Department recently added asmall brush truck to its fleet thanks to a $100,000 grant from Texas A&M Forest Service. Thegrant helped to provide a 2016 Ford F550 brush truck with a 500-gallon water tank and a foamsystem. With warmer-than-normal temperatures and the breezy, dry […]

March 8, 2016 — Corsicana, Texas — Navarro Volunteer Fire Department recently received a$19,000 grant from Texas A&M Forest Service. The grant enabled the department to update anexisting truck. “This new slip-on unit is replacing an older piece of equipment,” said Navarro Volunteer Fire Department Fire Chief Jimmy Coker. “The new unit has a 23 […]

A grant awarded by Texas A&M Forest Serviceallowed Yorktown Volunteer Fire Department to purchase an assortment of new rescueequipment that includes two new Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus, four new SCBA Scottsafety tanks, and a thermal imaging camera. Taking advantage of this grant gave the department specialized equipment to assist in varioustypes of rescue situations and will […]

 Crockett Volunteer Fire Department received a grant for$15,000 from Texas A&M Forest Service. The funds received went to purchase new rescueequipment. “The new rescue equipment has been placed on engine number 1, takes up little space and is easyto set up and use,” said Crockett VFD Fire Chief John Angerstein. The needs of the […]

Feb. 25, 2016 — Savoy, Texas — Savoy Volunteer Fire Department recently received a 5-ton 1991 BMY militarycargo truck and transformed it into a firefighting vehicle. The truck was made possible through the Department of Defense Firefighter Property Program administered byTexas A&M Forest Service. One of the stipulations for receiving a DoD truck is to […]

Texas A&M Forest Service recently awarded a $13,000 grant toWoodlawn Volunteer Fire Department for the purchase of rescue equipment. Woodlawn VFD purchased Hurst Jaws of Life, rescue jacks, high pressure air bags, a ram and a hydraulicpump. The community of Woodlawn is located on U.S. Route 59 and the VFD plays an important role when […]

Feb. 22, 2016 — GATESVILLE, Texas — Gatesville Volunteer Fire Department replaced anolder slip-on unit with a new diesel-powered model thanks to a grant through Texas A&M ForestService. “The new slip-on unit has already been put into service,” Gatesville VFD Fire Chief Billy Vadensaid. “There is a lot of vegetation right now, and the winds […]

A $15,000 grant through Texas A&M Forest Servicewill make a big difference to the community of Dimmitt. The Dimmitt Volunteer Fire Department now has reliable, updated equipment to use duringemergency response in their service area. “We are replacing older equipment with stronger rescue tools,” said Dimmitt VFD Fire ChiefRandy Griffitt. “It was difficult for the […]

Feb. 16, 2016 — EVERMAN, Texas — Rendon Fire Department recently received a slip-on unit that waspurchased with a $36,000 grant from Texas A&M Forest Service. This new slip-on unit replaces an older unit and helps increase the department’s firefighting capabilities.With the addition of the Compressed Air Foam System, the Rendon Fire Department can deliver […]

Winnie Stowell Volunteer Fire Department purchasednew rescue tools with a $14,800 grant from the Rural VFD Assistance Program, provided byTexas A&M Forest Service. The tools will greatly increase the department’s capabilities to extract victims from motorvehicle accidents, allowing them to get lifesaving medical attention quicker. “Winnie has grown a lot in the last 20 years […]

Feb. 9, 2016  EOLA, Texas  Eola Volunteer Fire Department received a military surplusvehicle through the Department of Defense Firefighter Property Program administered by TexasA&M Forest Service. “This new addition is excellent for the department’s service area, which is on the west side ofConcho country,” said Eola VFD Fire Chief Jeff Rutledge. “We can […]

Feb. 9, 2016 — NEW BOSTON, Texas — New Boston Volunteer Fire Department converteda 1990 5-ton cargo military vehicle into a multipurpose machine, useful in high water rescuesand wildland firefighting. “This is the type of truck that can be used to protect our rural area without any problems,” saidNew Boston VFD Battalion Chief Ronald Clark. […]

Feb. 9, 2016 — TROY, Texas — Troy Volunteer Fire Department received a $17,000 grantfrom the Rural VFD Assistance Program through Texas A&M Forest Service. The grant wasused to purchase a new slip-on unit with a 780-gallon water tank and a 23-horsepower pump,capable of pumping 250 gallons of water per minute. “The slip-on will greatly […]

Feb. 8, 2016 — EARTH, Texas — Earth Volunteer Fire Department transformed a 1994military 5-ton cargo vehicle into a service-ready machine in four months. Volunteers completedall necessary conversions which included replacing the soft top cab, sand blasting, and paintingthe truck, adding a 1,650-gallon poly tank and a water cannon that will deliver 250 gallons ofwater […]

Feb. 8, 2016 -BON WEIR, Texas — Bon Wier Volunteer Fire Department received a$100,000 cost-share grant from Texas A&M Forest Service that helped to purchase a 2016 FordF550 brush truck. The vehicle was recently put into service to respond to a hay field fire. The truck has the abilityto get off-road to safely respond where […]

Feb. 8, 2016 — LEAGUE CITY, Texas — League City Volunteer Fire Department purchaseda small brush truck after receiving a $100,000 grant from the Rural VFD Assistance Programthrough Texas A&M Forest Service. “We needed a little boost in the wildland fire fighting area,” said League City VFD Fire ChiefGary Warren. “This new unit will help […]

Firefighters dedicated to protecting lives and property will converge at the Central Texas Wildfire Academy at Camp Bowie, Texas in preparation for the 2016 wildfire season. In an effort to enhance skills and learn new firefighting techniques, responders from across the country w

Feb. 4, 2016 — HIGHLANDS, Texas — Highlands Volunteer Fire Department purchased anew slip-on unit with an $18,000 grant from Texas A&M Forest Service. “This is a replacement unit that is more flexible, has an auto start, a self-contained fuel tank, 200gallon water tank and more discharge outlets than our previous unit” says Highlands VFD […]

Feb. 3, 2016 — SARATOGA, Texas  Saratoga Volunteer Fire Department received a$200,000 grant from Texas A&M Forest Service to purchase a new large brush truck. Brush trucks are valuable to rural communities because they have the capability to operate in avariety of topography. “This new addition will give us greater water capacity and better […]

Jan. 25, 2016 — CROSBYTON, Texas — Crosbyton Volunteer Fire Department recently received a militarysurplus vehicle thanks to the Department of Defense Firefighter Property Program administered by Texas A&MForest Service. Crosbyton VFD worked hard to transform their 1990 BMY model, M923A2 military truck into a firefightingvehicle by painting it a nonmilitary color and installing a […]

Jan. 22, 2016 — BRECKENRIDGE, Texas — Hubbard Creek VFD recently added a converted 1989 M978Oshkosh military truck to their fleet. The addition was made possible through the Department of DefenseFirefighter Property Program administered by Texas A&M Forest Service. “One stipulation for receiving the truck was to paint it a non-military color,” said Hubbard Creek […]

Jan. 22, 2016 — DALE, Texas — McMahan Volunteer Fire Department has been hard at workreplacing aging equipment. An $18,000 grant from Texas A&M Forest Services’ Rural Volunteer Fire DepartmentAssistance Program enabled the department to purchase a new slip-on unit. “Our goal is to begin replacing the older equipment with more cost-effective apparatus which inturn […]

Jan. 21, 2016 — TULIA, Texas — Tulia Volunteer Fire Department is replacing a 1986 converted garbage truck with a new fire truck. The purchase was made possible through a grant from Texas A&M Forest Service. “Tulia VFD made this a multi-purpose fire truck for flexibility when responding to both wildland and structure fires,” said […]

Rice Volunteer Fire Department received a $12,900 grantfrom Texas A&M Forest Service through the Rural VFD Assistance Program to purchase newrescue equipment. The tools include a power unit, spreader, cutter and ram. “We are trying to keep up-to-date equipment to better serve as mutual aid to the bigger fire departments in the area,” said Rice […]

MOUNTAIN HOME, Texas — The Mountain Home Volunteer Fire Department recentlyreceived a $200,000 grant to purchase a new large brush truck through the Texas A&M ForestService’s Rural VFD Assistance Program. “The truck is equipped with a larger water tank which will be beneficial when fighting wildlandfires,” said Mountain Home VFD Fire Chief Brian Alexander. Mountain […]

ELKHART, Texas — Elkhart Volunteer Fire Department improved both its equipment and itscapabilities with the help of an $18,000 grant provided by Texas A&M Forest Service. The Rural VFD Assistance program helped Elkhart VFD purchase a new slip-on unit withcompressed air foam capabilities. It will replace an older unit. “Having been one of the first […]

RICHLAND SPRINGS, Texas — The Richland Springs Volunteer Fire Department received a grant from Texas A&M Forest Service for a new slip-on unit worth $18,000. “It has the foam unit capabilities on it and is more lightweight than the older unit. The lighter weight makes it easier to get out to the wildland fires,” said […]

East End Volunteer Fire Department received a $14,800 grant from Texas A&M Forest Service through the Rural VFD Assistance Program to purchase new rescue tools. “There are two stations in the area and this equipment is going to the one that currently has limited equipment, said East End VFD Fire Chief Bob Gary. “ It […]

SAN ANGELO, Texas — The Texas A&M Forest Service Rural VFD Assistance grant helped Quail ValleyVolunteer Fire Department purchased a new apparatus to strengthen their fleet. The new large brush truckreplaces a 1970 converted military vehicle. The truck is equipped with a slip-on unit and foam system that willprovide additional benefits when fighting wildland fires […]

LONE OAK, Texas — Lone Oak Texas Fire Department recently converted a 5-ton militaryvehicle into a large brush truck. The truck will give the department the capacity to attackwildland fires with a 1,200-gallon water source and be a versatile apparatus when responding tostructure fires. “This truck gives us the capability to fight fires for a […]

NASSAU BAY, Texas—Nassau Bay Volunteer Fire Department received a $200,000 grant tohelp purchase a new tender through the Texas A&M Forest Service’s Rural VFD Assistance Program. “This tender is replacing an older apparatus that held less water,” said Nassau Bay VFD Fire ChiefTom George. “It will help to enhance our water handling capabilities and maintain […]

LEMING, Texas — Leming Volunteer Fire Department recently converted a 6×6 5-ton excessmilitary tractor truck into a 5,000-gallon super tanker, to shuttle water to wildland and structurefires. “Our service area is rural without the access to fire hydrants, so our water source is prettylimited,” said Leming VFD Fire Chief Andrew Martinez. “This vehicle will be […]

STEPHENVILLE, Texas — Erath County Fire and Rescue recently added a new tanker to its fleet thanks to a $200,000 grant from Texas A&M Forest Service. “Erath County Fire Rescue did not exist when I first started working at TFS,” said Resource Specialist III, Keith Vaughan. “Over the years, I have seen a tremendous amount […]

BELTON, Texas — Thanks to a $100,000 Rural VFD Assistance grant through Texas A&MForest Service, Sparta Volunteer Fire Department has replaced a 1980 brush truck. The new Wildland truck is a Dodge 5500 series equipped with a 500-gallon water tank and a 10gallon Class A foam system. This versatile apparatus is not only a wildland […]

FRITCH, Texas — Fritch Volunteer Fire Department recently added a converted Heavy Expanded MobilityTactical Truck to their fleet. “Fritch is on the banks of the Canadian River with broken terrain that can be difficult to maneuver,” Fire ChiefEd Adamson said. “This truck has the power and traction to get up and down those ravines.” The […]

CALLISBURG, Texas — Callisburg Volunteer Fire Department recently completed a service-ready unit aspart of the Department of Defense Firefighting Property Program. The conversion included paint, a 350 GPMpump, a 1200-gallon tank, a hose reel, lights, and safety rails. “Because of the way we equipped this vehicle, we can use it for wildland or structural fires, […]

WHEELER, Texas — The Wheeler Volunteer Fire Department received their first new large brush truck with aCompressed Air Foam System, thanks to Texas A&M Forest Service’s Rural VFD Assistance Program. “This truck is a great addition because we were running with only military surplus equipment,” said WheelerVFD Fire Chief Robert Ford. “This new truck will […]

HAMILTON, Texas — The Hamilton Volunteer Fire Department received a $200,000 grant from the Rural VFD Assistance grant program through Texas A&M Forest Service. The new tanker carries 3,000 gallons of water plus equipment. It will be used for wildland and, structural fires and auto accidents. “This tanker is an upgrade from our old pumper […]

NATALIA, Texas — The Natalia Volunteer Fire Department received a Rural VFD Assistancegrant that helped purchase a slip-on unit with a compressed air foam system. “This unit is replacing an older one that we had,” said Fire Chief Chuck Brown. “The new unit islarger, has a better compressor, holds 240 gallons of water, and has […]

KRESS, Texas  Kress Volunteer Fire Department received a retired military vehicle at no cost through TexasA&M Forest Service as part of the Department of Defense Firefighter Property Program. The excess militaryvehicle will help increase Kress VFD’s capacity to protect their community and provide a safer way to fightfires. They will be using it as […]

HUMBLE, Texas — A $100,000 grant from Texas A&M Forest Service enabled Eastex Freeway VolunteerFire Department to purchase a wildland apparatus. The brush truck is a four-door vehicle built to carryadditional manpower and is equipped with a 300-gallon water tank, 10-gallon foam tank, and 240 gallons perminute pump. “The addition of this engine will help […]

CROSBYTON, Texas – Apple Springs Volunteer Fire Department accepted a military vehicle from TexasA&M Forest Service’s DoD Firefighter Property Program. The vehicle is a versatile piece of equipment andwill increase their capabilities to protect life and property in their community. “This converted military truck will add another aspect to our rescue program as a high […]

SNYDER, Texas— The Snyder Volunteer Fire Department replaced a 5-ton military vehicle with a new largebrush truck, thanks to a $218,000 grant from Texas A&M Forest Service. The new apparatus will be used forwildland and structural fires and farming incidents. The new truck is equipped with a Compressed Air Foam System that has a 1,000-gallon […]

BIG SPRING, Texas — Thanks to a grant from Texas A&M Forest Service, Drumright Volunteer Fire Department received a large brush truck as a new addition to their fleet. “This unit will make a big difference in the department’s ability to serve and protect the citizens in Drumright.VFD’s service area,” said TFS Regional Fire Coordinator […]

WINNSBORO, Texas — The Ogburn Volunteer Fire Department recently received a $200,000 grant from theTexas A&M Forest Service. The funds went toward securing a new large brush truck through the Rural VFDAssistance Program. The reliability of the vehicle is what makes this truck so valuable to the department. It can carry four firefightersand a driver/operator […]

The Wake Village Volunteer Fire Department recently received a $100,000 grantfrom Texas A&M Forest Service to purchase a small brush truck. The new truck will replace an older vehiclethat had clocked over 200,000 miles. “This is the first new brush truck for our department,” said Fire Chief James Guyton. “Our older truck was arepair nightmare […]

A $15,000 grant from Texas A&M Forest Service helped the Jourdanton VolunteerFire Department retire their 20-year-old rescue equipment. This update will be a great benefit for theircommunity and surrounding area, and help to increase the safety of the firefighters. “The new jaws of life has greater technology, is lighter weight and produces greater pressure. The […]

SAN FELIPE, Texas – The San Felipe-Frydek VFD recently received a grant worth $200,000 to purchase a new water tend through the Texas A&M Forest Service’s Rural VFD Assistance Program. With only a few fire hydrants in the community, this new addition will be beneficial at emergency scenes. It will transport 3,000 gallons of water. […]

SPRINGTOWN, Texas — La Junta Volunteer Fire Department recently received a $17,325 grantfrom the Texas A&M Forest Service for a slip-on unit. This unit will replace a 13-year-old pumppreviously built by the volunteers. It will include a 400-gallon water tank, a 10-gallon foam tank,23hp pump, Class A foam system, 100-foot hose reel, storage compartments, and […]

CLEVELAND, Texas — Bear Creek Volunteer Fire Department recently added a new slip-on unit to its fleet of emergencyrescue equipment with the help of an $18,000 grant from Texas A&M Forest Service. “The truck we were using was not working properly. We needed to replace it badly,” Fire Chief Bryant Matthews said. “Itwas requiring a […]

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 thedepartment to have a newer, larger unit that is equipped with foam capabilities, which helps to quickly suppress […]

GUN BARREL CITY, Texas — Gun Barrel City Fire Department purchased a new slip-on unit with a $16,256 grant fromTexas A&M Forest Service. According to Fire Chief Joseph Lindaman, they did not have to wait long to put the unit intoservice. The fire department has already used the new slip-on unit to contain three grass […]

BRYSON, Texas — Bryson Volunteer Fire Department retired an older truck and is in the process of building anew one equipped with a slip-on unit. The slip-on unit purchase is possible through the Texas A&M Forest Service. The equipment will give them theoption of using the compressed air foam system to generate foam that is […]

NOLANVILLE, Texas — An $18,000 grant from Texas A&M Forest Service was recently awarded to Central Bell County FireRescue for a new slip-on unit. “Central Bell County Fire Rescue as well as their mutual aid area, will benefit from this new slip-on unit,” Texas A&M.Forest Service Regional Fire Coordinator Mitchell LaMonte said. The 350-gallon water […]

HENRIETTA, Texas — Henrietta Volunteer Fire Department recently received a grant from Texas A&M Forest Service tohelp purchase a new slip-on unit. “This slip-on unit is equipped with a larger tank and an improved pump which allows for increased volume and pressure,enabling us to control and extinguish fires faster,” Henrietta VFD Fire Chief Mike Roberts. […]

Uncontrolled blazes fueled by weather, wind and dry underbrush, wildfires can burn acres of land – and consume everything in their paths – in mere minutes. Thanks to an $118,000 grant from Texas A&M Forest Service, Village of Palisades Volunteer Fire Department will have a new brush truck with a compressed air foam system to […]

Replacing a 23-year-old hydraulic pump was a priority for Scenic Loop Volunteer Fire Department. Thanks to a $12,300 grant from Texas A&M Forest Service the old piece of equipment will bereplaced with a new compact power source. “The new pump is more compact, very light and easy to use. It is a valuable addition to […]

– The use of rescue stabilization struts creates a safer emergency scene and helps save lives. Robert LeeVolunteer Fire Department recently received a grant from Texas A&M Forest Service to help enhance their rescue capabilities withthe purchase of rescue struts. “We are glad to have tools that will help us to be of greater assistance […]

Serving their community since 1902, Groom VFD is continually looking for ways to advance theircapacity to protect life and property. Thanks to a $15,000 grant from Texas A&M Forest Service the departmentpurchased additional rescue equipment which included a nozzle foam system, rescue saw and scene lights. “We get a number of calls for accidents on […]

Intense wildfire seasons and life-altering emergencies call for better equipment and more training for our firefighters on the frontline. With over 85 percent of Texas fire departments being operated by volunteers, funding for essential equipment and training can be hard to c

Flo, Texas – The Flo Volunteer Fire Department received their first new fire truck thanks to a $100,000 grant from Texas A&M Forest Service’s Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. “This small brush truck is the first new truck our department has ever purchased. It will be a big asset to our service area when […]

The Flo Volunteer Fire Department received their first new fire truck thanks to a $100,000 grantfrom Texas A&M Forest Service’s Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. “This small brush truck is the first new truck our department has ever purchased. It will be a big asset to ourservice area when responding to brush fires and […]

Built to cut through steel, the Jaws of Life extrication tool helps firefighters free people from mangled cars andburning or collapsed buildings. Steele Creek Acres Volunteer Fire Department received a $9,000 grant from Texas A&M ForestService. The grant has improved the department’s ability to purchase key rescue tools needed for auto and confined space rescues. […]

Firefighters and apparatus from across the state mobilized to assist with fighting fire and protecting homes in Bastrop County on the Hidden Pines Fire that ignited last Tuesday.

Texas A&M Forest Service has called in a DC-10 air tanker to help battle the wildfire raging through Bastrop County. The tanker can drop close to 12,000 gallons of retardant at a time, spreading a swath three-quarters of a mile long and 500 feet wide.

Quitman Volunteer Fire Department recently received a $100,000 grant to go toward the purchaseof a small brush truck through Texas A&M Forest Service’s Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. The truck, a 4-wheel drive Ford F-550, went into service on Sept. 12. “We ran about six calls that day,” Director of Fireand Safety Administration Gary […]

Killeen, Texas — Southwest Bell County Volunteer Fire Department recently received an $18,000 grant from Texas A&MForest Service to purchase a new slip-on unit. It will be used on a truck chassis they received from a 2003 TFS grant. The slip-on unit is already in use and was recently used to fight a brush fire. […]

Members of the Elm Grove Volunteer Fire Department were recently presented with a grant check of$100,000 by Texas A&M Forest Service. The funds are part of the Rural VFD Grant Assistance Program, which went toward securing a new brush truck for thedepartment. “Our first truck was a 1988 Ford one-ton with a skid unit and […]

Paducah Volunteer Fire Department recently received a $15,000 grant from TexasA&M Forest Service to purchase new rescue equipment through the Rural Volunteer Fire DepartmentAssistance Program. The equipment included new power and rescue tools for auto extrication and other emergencies. “The new, lighter equipment allows one person to do the job freeing up others for things […]

Roxton, Texas—The Roxton Volunteer Fire Department recently received a grant from the Texas A&M Forest Service to purchase a new brush truck. “The grant helped us replace an older 1995 truck. The new truck has four-wheel drive and a wildland deck gun/ monitor on the front bumper. It also carries 800 gallons of water that […]

A $100,000 grant made available by Texas A&M Forest Service enabled the City ofEscobares Volunteer Fire Department to purchase a new small brush truck. “Our Department had only one brush truck, so we are happy to have added another to our fleet,” Fire ChiefLauro Ramirez said. The department required an additional truck to keep up […]

A $99,000 grant made available by Texas A&M Forest Service enabledJasper Co. Tri-Community Volunteer Fire Department to purchase a new Ford F150 brush truck. “We are thrilled to welcome this new addition to our fleet,” Fire Chief Vandie Smith said. The department is located among the backdrop of rural East Texas where it protects a […]

TYNAN, Texas –– A $200,000 grant administered by Texas A&M Forest Service enabled Tynan Volunteer Fire Department to purchase a new brush truck. The new large brush truck will replace a converted 1974 Ford. “The old truck had aged tremendously,” Fire Chief Thomas Mengers said. “It had rusted out and began to have mechanical problems. […]

SLIDELL, Texas –– Greenwood-Slidell Volunteer Fire Department recently received an $18,000 grant to gotoward the purchase of a slip-on unit through Texas A&M Forest Service’s Rural VFD Assistance Program. “The new slip-on unit is acting as a replacement to an older piece of equipment,” Fire Chief Adam North said.“Having a fully functional and up-to-date piece […]

EDGECLIFF VILLAGE, Texas –– With a $189,000 grant through Texas A&M Forest Service’s Rural VFD AssistanceProgram, Edgecliff Village Fire Department now has a new large brush truck. “Our old truck was quickly aging and having a lot of mechanical problems,” Fire Chief Jeffery Ballew said. “Weneeded a new truck that would meet our needs as […]

With a $15,000 grant through Texas A&M Forest Service’s Rural VFD AssistanceProgram, now has new rescue equipment. “Eleven years ago I submitted our department’s first application for Texas A&M Forest Service’s Rural VFD Assistancegrant for rescue equipment including road gear,” Fire Chief Myron Fiedler said. “The equipment we received only lastsabout ten years; so we […]

Elm Pass Volunteer Fire Department recently received a $99,000 grant for a small brushtruck through Texas A&M Forest Service’s Rural VFD Assistance Program. “Our department applied for this grant because we were using two old pickup trucks with skid units in them tofight fires,” Fire Chief Jerry Vincent said. Aside from desiring something more updated, […]

Dove Creek Volunteer Fire Department recently received a $100,000 grant to gotoward the purchase of a small brush truck through Texas A&M Forest Service’s Rural VFD AssistanceProgram. “To replace a 1972 Ford F700 that was originally used as a Schwan’s delivery truck,” Fire Chief Cue Robertssaid. “It was the only truck to run on propane […]

WALLER, Texas – Waller Volunteer Fire Department and Rescue Service recently received a $200,000 grant to go toward the purchase of a tanker through Texas A&M Forest Service’s Rural VFD Assistance Program. “We applied for this grant because we had two antique tankers that were originally old Ozarka Water trucks,” Captain Robert Ross said. “Originally […]

HUMBLE, Texas –– Northeast Fire and Rescue Service recently received a $199,000 grant to go toward the purchase of a large brush truck through Texas A&M Forest Service’s Rural VFD Assistance Program. “Our department applied for this grant because we needed a new truck to increase our ability to respond to wildlandfires and high water […]

RAYMONDVILLE, Texas –– Raymondville Fire Department recently completed the conversion of a militaryvehicle and received its title through Texas A&M Forest Service as part of the DoD Firefighter PropertyProgram. “This military vehicle is a vital piece of equipment to our community,” Fire Chief Oscar Gutierrez said.“Converted into a tanker truck, it can hold 6,000 gallons […]

MISSION, Texas –– Mission Fire Department recently received a retired military vehicle and its title to add to theirfleet through Texas A&M Forest Service as part of the DoD Firefighter Property Program. “The military vehicle is serving as an addition to our fleet,” Fire Chief Rene Lopez said. “It is going to be used asa […]

CORRIGAN, Texas –– Corrigan Volunteer Fire Department recently received a $200,000 grant to go towards thepurchase of a large brush truck through Texas A&M Forest Service’s Rural VFD Assistance Program. “We opted to add to our fleet in order to increase our capability to serve our community,” Fire Chief JohnCobb said. With a service area […]

ALAMO, Texas –– Alamo Fire Department recently received a retired military vehicle and its title to add to their fleetthrough Texas A&M Forest Service as part of the DoD Firefighter Property Program. “We just couldn’t afford a new truck on our own,” Fire Chief Rolando Espinoza said. “The DoD Firefighter PropertyProgram presented us with a […]

– Nueces County ESD #2 recently received a $100,000 small brush truck grant throughTexas A&M Forest Service’s Rural VFD Assistance Program. “We had two small brush trucks since the early 2000s, but within a short period of time one’s engine stoppedworking and the other blew a transmission,” Fire Chief Everett Dale Scott said. “Aside from […]

ALBANY, Texas –– Shackelford County Rural Fire Department received a retired military vehicle at no costthrough Texas A&M Forest Service as part of the DoD Firefighter Property Program. “We had a ‘68 model truck that was in need of an upgrade,” Fire Chief Brad Henry said. “It had engine troubleand the front end was worn […]

CLYDE, Texas –– Oplin Volunteer Fire Department received an excess military vehicle through TexasA&M Forest Service as part of the DoD Firefighter Property Program. “As a small department serving a small community, we often don’t have the funds to purchase our ownvehicles,” Fire Chief Douglas Campbell said. “We had a 1980 model Chevrolet, but it […]

AMHERST, Texas –– Amherst Volunteer Fire Department recently received a retired military vehicle from TexasA&M Forest Service as part of the DoD Firefighter Property Program. “We were in need of a truck that could fight grass fires,” Fire Chief Bob Mills said. “We serve 85 square milesof primarily ranch and grasslands. Wildfires are the majority […]

ELIASVILLE, Texas –– Eliasville Volunteer Fire Department recently received a retired military vehicle to add to their fleet through Texas A&M Forest Service as part of the DoD Firefighter Property Program. “We needed help acquiring equipment that was suitable for heavy brush,” Fire Chief Steve Reger said.The department applied for the military vehicle to replace […]

Roby Volunteer Fire Department recently received a $15,000 grant for rescueequipment through Texas A&M Forest Service’s Rural VFD Assistance Program. “Our department was in need of rescue equipment to expand our ability to perform tasks suchas extrications safely,” Fire Chief James Terry Said. The new equipment will serve as an addition to equipment the department. […]

Burkeville Volunteer Fire Department recently received a $100,000 grant for a small brush truck through Texas A&M Forest Service’s Rural VFD Assistance Program. “We needed a new brush truck worse than anything in the world,” Fire Chief Charles Duckworthsaid. “We respond to more than 40 wildfires a year, and our 13-year-old small brush truckwasn’t enough […]

ROCK ISLAND, Texas –– Rock Island Volunteer Fire Department recently received a $200,000 to go towards thepurchase of a new tanker through a grant from Texas A&M Forest Service’s Rural VFD Assistance Program. “We needed a new tanker to replace our 1993 model pumper,” Fire Chief Patrick Smith said. “We didn’t havethe excess funds to […]

KAMAY, Texas –– Kamay Volunteer Fire Department received an excess military vehicle through Texas A&M ForestService as part of the DoD Firefighter Property Program. “The truck that this one will eventually replace was put into service about 15 years ago,” Fire Chief Barry Tyler said. “Weneeded a dependable vehicle, and the older truck was beginning […]

Bremond Volunteer Fire Department recently received a $15,000 grant for rescueequipment through Texas A&M Forest Service’s Rural VFD Assistance Program. “We applied for this grant to help pay for much needed equipment,” Assistant Chief Keith Rakieta said. Bremond VFD purchased a thermal imaging camera, heavy-duty lights, a gas detector and rescue chain saws toreplace their […]

Natural disasters are frequent in Texas. To collaboratively meet the demands of responding to wildfires, hurricanes, tornadoes and flood events, all-hazard response incident management training is needed—training that emergency responders will receive at the East Texas Interagency Wild

Windcrest Volunteer Fire Department recently received a $118,000 small brush truckthrough Texas A&M Forest Service’s Rural VFD Assistance Program. “We applied because our fleet was depleting,” Fire Chief Eric Vargas said. “The majority of our vehicles areupwards of 15 years old and are not fully functional.” The new truck has four-wheel drive and can accommodate […]

WICHITA FALLS, Texas –– Established in 2006, Friberg-Cooper Volunteer Fire Department hasbeen working to improve its capacity to fight fires by attaining up-to-date equipment.Converting a military truck received from the DoD Firefighter Property Program helped them dojust that. The program, administered by Texas A&M Forest Service and managed nationally by USDAForest Service, provides excess military […]

VAN ZANDT, Texas –– South Van Zandt Volunteer Fire Department recently received a $200,000 tanker through TexasA&M Forest Service’s Rural VFD Assistance Program. “We applied for the grant to replace a 1984 model tanker truck,” South Van Zandt Board of Directors President TimMeredith said. “The old truck was becoming hard to repair.” A 2015 international […]

ANGELINA RIVER, Texas –– Angelina River Volunteer Fire Department recently received a$200,000 grant for a large brush truck through Texas A&M Forest Service’s Rural VFD AssistanceProgram. “The large brush truck is acting as an upgrade to our equipment,” Firefighter Jim McCallie said.By carrying a water tank capable of holding 1,000 gallons, the new truck will […]

Clarendon Volunteer Fire Department recently received an $11,000 grant for a set of extricationtools through Texas A&M Forest Service’s Rural VFD Assistance Program. “Our department replaced a set of cutters, jaws, rams and a power unit that was in excess of 30 years old,” Fire ChiefJeremy Powell said. The tools can cut through car metal, […]

OLNEY, Texas –– Olney Volunteer Fire Department will add a retired military vehicle to their fleet aspart of the DoD Firefighting Property Program. “The truck is replacing an older unit,” Fire Chief Ron Keeter said. “We didn’t have one that couldaccommodate brush.” With most of their vehicles being for streets, the military truck stands out […]

SUNSET, Texas –– Sunset Volunteer Fire Department recently received a retired military truckfrom Texas A&M Forest Service as part of the DoD Firefighter Property Program, “The truck will be substituting for another vehicle that is not as capable of getting to certainareas as the new one,” Fire Chief Biff Huddelston said. Weighing in at 5 […]

BELLEVUE, Texas –– Bellevue Volunteer Fire Department received a retired military vehicle to add to their fleet through the DoD Firefighter Property Program managed by the USDA Forest Service andadministered by Texas A&M Forest Service. “Residing on the edge of timber and rolling plains, there is quite a bit of grass that can fuel wildfires […]

Windthorst Volunteer Fire Department received an $11,000 grant for rescue tools through Texas A&M Forest Service’s Rural VFD Assistance Program. “Our department has been in need of a thermal imaging camera and stabilizing jacks for rescue,” Fire Chief Marvin Geis said. The new equipment will advance their ability to fight fires and service automobile accidents. […]

DEMI-JOHN, Texas ––Demi-John Volunteer Fire Department was recently awarded a $15,000 grant for aslip-on unit through Texas A&M Forest Service’s Rural VFD Assistance Program. The VFD services around 300 homes, the Brazoria National Wildfire Refuge, and an industrial oil fillingarea. “The slip-on unit that Demi-John received will increase their firefighting potential to protect theircommunity and […]

CROWELL, Texas ––Crowell Volunteer Fire Department was awarded an $18,000 grant for a slip-onunit through TFS’s Rural VFD Assistance Program. “The slip-on unit provides us the ability to better suppress fires,” Fire Chief Perry Shaw said.After receiving the unit, the department bought a new truck to accommodate it. “Serving a rural area, the unit combined […]

Joy Volunteer Fire Department received a retired military vehicle to add to their fleet through Texas A&M Forest Service as part of the DoD Firefighter Property Program, a program managed nationwide by the U.S. Forest Service. “We service 240 square miles of heavy brush land and close to 500 people,” Fire Chief Clay Skelton said. […]

BEN BOLT, Texas –– Texas A&M Forest Service awarded Ben Bolt Volunteer Fire Department a $200,000 grantto help purchase a new brush truck to add to their fleet. Ben Bolt Fire Chief Patrick Thomas said the new brush truck will fill a void they were experiencing within theirfleet. “This large brush truck will increase our […]

PLEAK, Texas –– Texas A&M Forest Service awarded a $200,000 grant to Pleak VFF Association for atanker through the Rural VFD Assistance Program. “The new tanker will replace a vehicle that had been out of service for about a year and a half because itwas no longer operational or road worthy,” Day Crew Firefighter Jordan […]

WHEELOCK, Texas –– Wheelock Volunteer Fire Department now has a converted military truck to protect itscommunity from fire and related hazards thanks to the DoD Firefighter Property Program administered byTexas A&M Forest Service. The program provides excess military equipment to fire departments and emergency service providers and ismanaged nationally by the USDA Forest Service. “As […]

Thanks to a $126,000 grant from Texas A&M Forest Service, Clute Fire Rescuecan now retire an older truck with its newly updated combination vehicle. The cost-share grant administered by TFS went toward purchasing a large brush truck chassisand a new slip-on unit with a compressed air foam system. “We were in need of an urban […]

Texas A&M Forest Service recently awarded Sanger Volunteer Fire Department a$9,200 grant through their Rural VFD Assistance Program. The cost-share grant went towardpurchasing a new thermal imaging camera. Fire Chief David Pennington said the new camera will be used in structure fires and smokeinvestigations. “This camera has the capability to detect hot spots and cold […]

HOUSTON, Texas –– Southside Place Volunteer Fire Department now has a new brush truckthanks to a $200,000 grant administered by Texas A&M Forest Service. For Southside Place VFD, being nested within a small community makes funding for neededequipment difficult to come by. “TFS has been very helpful to us in attaining this equipment. It is […]

BOWIE, Texas –– Texas A&M Forest Service recently awarded a $36,000 grant to Bowie Rural Volunteer Fire Department to go toward purchasing a new slip-on unit with a compressed air foam system. “This new unit will help increase our capacity and give us an advantage in putting out grass fires,” Chairman J.K. Brite said. “It […]

A nearly $14,000 grant awarded by Texas A&M Forest Service allowed HambyVolunteer Fire Department to purchase new rescue equipment. Taking advantage of this grant gave the department specialized equipment to assist in various types ofrescue situations. They used the opportunity to purchased stabilizer bars, airlifting bags, and air packsthat will help to improve efficiency, safety […]

PADUCAH, Texas –– An $18,000 grant from Texas A&M Forest Service helped PaducahVolunteer Fire Department purchased a much-needed upgrade in equipment. The cost share grant went toward purchasing a new slip-on unit for the VFD that will replacesome older equipment. “Our service area is very rural with a lot of grass and trees that fuel […]

MULLIN, Texas –– Texas A&M Forest Service recently awarded Mullin Volunteer Fire Department an $11,600grant to help them purchase a new slip-on unit. “Where we are located, there is a water problem,” Fire Chief Bud West said. “We have to use a well or tank forwater and they are not always available in the open […]

BIG LAKE, Texas –– Big Lake Volunteer Fire Department can now replace a 20-year-old truck thanks to a $200,000 grant awarded by Texas A&M Forest Service for a new brush truck. The old truck experienced a great deal of wear and tear during the 2011 fire season, according to Fire Chief Alan Garner. “After that […]

RAVENNA, Texas –– Ravenna Volunteer Fire Department recently upgraded from an old fire engine to aconverted military truck with help from Texas A&M Forest Service and the DoD Firefighter Property Program.The program is managed nationally by the USDA Forest Service and implemented here in Texas by TFS. “We needed to expand our department so we […]

WADSWORTH, Texas –– Wadsworth Volunteer Fire Department now has a brand new tanker thanks to theHouse Bill 2604 grant program administered by Texas A&M Forest Service. Awarded just shy of $200,000, WVFD was able to replace a 1971 model pumper truck with an updated tanker. “The new truck carries about 2,200 gallons of water,” Fire […]

Trinidad Volunteer Fire Department has upgraded its equipment with help from a $11,300grant administered by Texas A&M Forest Service. The grant helped the department purchase a set of new nozzles to be placed on the VFDs existing pumper toenhance its capabilities. “These nozzles are monitors that allow you to put water on a fire and […]

BYERS, Texas –– Now owners of a recently converted military truck, Byers Volunteer Fire Department canmore efficiently protect its rural service area. The VFD received this retired military truck to convert into a firefighting engine through the DoD Firefighter Property Program, established and managed nationally by the USDA Forest Service and implemented locallyby Texas A&M […]

THORNTON, Texas –– Thornton Volunteer Fire Department recently filled a void in necessary equipment with aconverted military truck from the DoD Firefighter Property Program administered by Texas A&M ForestService. “We needed something that could get off the road and carry enough water so we wouldn’t have to come outof the field to refill the tank,” […]

GATESVILLE, Texas –– The Coryell City Osage Volunteer Fire Department now operates with a convertedmilitary truck thanks to the DoD Firefighter Property Program administered by Texas A&M Forest Service.The program, managed nationally by the USDA Forest Service, provides excess military equipment to fire departments and emergency service providers. “Our area generally has a lot of […]

SKELLYTOWN, Texas –– Skellytown Volunteer Fire Department now has a new slip-on unitthanks to an $18,000 grant administered by Texas A&M Forest Service. “It is very rough country around here,” Fire Chief Vance Griffith said. “We are a very smalldepartment with very little funds, and the unit we had was getting old.” The VFD serves […]

GRAHAM, Texas –– Possum Kingdom Westside Volunteer Fire Department now has a convertedmilitary truck to use for on- and off-road firefighting, allowing them to retire an old 1983 modelengine. The VFD received the military truck through the DoD Firefighter Property Program, managednationally by the USDA Forest Service and administered by Texas A&M Forest Service. “Our […]

DE KALB, Texas –– With the help of Texas A&M Forest Service and a few local businesses, De Kalb Volunteer Fire Department now has a service-ready converted military truck to put into use. The VFD received the truck through the DoD Firefighter Property Program, a program managed nationally by USDAForest Service and implemented locally by […]

Agreement to use FFP vehicles

GLEN ROSE, Texas –– A newly converted military truck will now serve the Somervell CountyVolunteer Fire Department, thanks to the DoD Firefighter Property Program “We were under-equipped for a fire district of our size,” Fire Chief Mark Crawford said. “We neededthis kind of vehicle to serve and protect our area.” The DoD Firefighter Property Program, […]

GROESBECK, Texas –– Groesbeck Volunteer Fire Department will now operate with a 5-tonconverted military truck awarded to them by Texas A&M Forest Service through the DoDFirefighter Property Program. “We only had one grass truck, and when that one was down, we could not respond,” retired FireChief Charles Bratcher said. “We have a lot of territory […]

Thanks in part to a $100,000 grant awarded by Texas A&M Forest Service,Dickinson Volunteer Fire Department now has a new brush truck to upgrade its capabilities. The VFD serves Dickinson corporate limits as well as the surrounding unincorporated area,equating to about 29,000 people and 12-15 square miles of territory. “We got a brush truck back […]

FLOMOT, Texas –– Flomot Volunteer Fire Department serves a 250 square mile community of just over100 people consisting mostly of farmers and ranchers. Because of the unique nature of this spaciouscommunity, acquiring additional fire equipment was necessary. FVFD received an excess military truck through the DoD Firefighter Property Program managed by theU.S. Forest Service and […]

HOLLIDAY, Texas –– Lake Kickapoo Volunteer Fire Department now has a fully equipped convertedmilitary truck to call its own, thanks to the DoD Firefighter Property Program. The program, managed by the U.S. Forest Service and administered by Texas A&M Forest Service,assigns excess trucks to VFDs in need across the state of Texas. “We are a […]

A $13,882 grant from Texas A&M Forest Service helped Central MontgomeryCo. VFD get a much needed piece of equipment. The grant went toward purchasing a new thermal imaging camera, which will expedite thesearch and rescue process and increase the safety of the volunteers fighting the fires. “The firefighter’s safety is our greatest concern,” Fire Chief […]

The Ozona Volunteer Fire Department purchased a new thermal imaging camera thanks to a$15,000 grant awarded by Texas A&M Forest Service through the Rural VFD Assistance Program.The camera will assist volunteers on the scene of a fire during search and rescue. “The camera we had before was old and outdated,” Fire Chief Brian Morrow stated. […]

MATADOR, Texas –– An excess military vehicle will now service the Matador/Motley County VolunteerFire Department emergency service district. The truck was passed along to the VFD through the DoFirefighter Property Program administered by Texas A&M Forest Service. Recipients of this excess military property are required to convert the vehicle into a service-ready unit within180 days […]

RALLS, Texas ––The DoD Firefighter Property Program administered by Texas A&M Forest Servicereleased an excess military truck to Ralls VFD for use in fire suppression. “We were extremely short-handed on trucks,” Fire Chief Billy Tidwell said. “This 5-ton truck will work well onthe terrain in our service district. It will give us more water capabilities […]

DIBOLL, Texas –– Diboll Volunteer Fire Department has enhanced its fire service capabilities with thehelp of an $18,000 grant administered by Texas A&M Forest Service. The HB 2604 grant went toward purchasing a new slip-on unit for one of the department’s existing trucks,allowing them to retire an older 1978 model truck. “We didn’t have the […]

BELLEVUE, Texas –– With the help of both the DoD Firefighter Property Program (FFP) and the Rural VFDAssistance Program administered by Texas A&M Forest Service, Bellevue VFD is now more prepared torespond to emergencies. BVFD was recently awarded an $18,000 grant from TFS to purchase a new slip-on unit that they then placedon a five-ton […]

FREER, Texas ––Freer Volunteer Fire Department received an excess military vehicle to convertinto a firefighting apparatus through the DoD Firefighter Property Program implemented byTexas A&M Forest Service. “We are out in a sparse area, and we didn’t have sufficient water supply when fighting brush fires,”Fire Chief James Finney said. “All we had was a small […]

ATHENS, Texas –– Many volunteer fire departments rely heavily on donations and grant programs in order toprovide adequate protection for the land and people in their service districts. North 19 VFD recently upgradedits equipment with a $33,000 grant from Texas A&M Forest Service. For North 19 VFD, it was important to get a piece of […]

Emergency responders are invited to hone their wildland firefighting skills at the 14th annual Central Texas Wildfire Academy, February 11–15.

PUTNAM, Texas –– With limited funding available, many volunteer fire departments struggle to findmoney to operate at full capacity. Putnam VFD recently received a grant from Texas A&M Forest Serviceto help purchase a new slip-on unit for one of its existing trucks. The new slip-on will replace an older unit that kept breaking down. “The […]

Emergency responders are invited to hone their wildland firefighting skills at the 14th annual Central Texas Wildfire Academy, February 11 – 15. The academy at Camp Bowie, in Brownwood, Texas, features wildland firefighting training.

BAIRD, Texas –– A $200,000 grant administered by Texas A&M Forest Service enabled Baird VolunteerFire Department to purchase a new brush truck. The department previously relied on trucks built using parts from surplus properties.“We couldn’t afford to buy a truck like this,” Fire Chief Jeff Barton said. “We needed a quicker firstresponse truck.” The new […]

BRACKETTVILLE, Texas –– For a volunteer fire department that services approximately 1,500square miles, having updated fire and rescue equipment is imperative. With the help of an$18,000 grant from Texas A&M Forest Service, Kinney VFD was able to purchase a new slip-onunit for one of their trucks. Along with providing aid to neighboring departments and helping […]

SPUR, Texas –– Texas A&M Forest Service recently awarded the Spur Volunteer Fire Department an $18,000grant to help pay for a brand-new slip-on unit. According to Fire Chief Reid Arnold, the mobility of the unit was one of its big perks. “The ease of changing it out was key,” Arnold said. “Being able to slip […]

APPLE SPRINGS, Texas –– Apple Springs Volunteer Fire Department improved both its equipment and itscapabilities with the help of an $18,000 grant administered by the Texas A&M Forest Service. The cost share grant helped the VFD purchase a new slip-on unit with compressed air foam capabilities. “Before receiving this grant, the newest unit we had […]

Texas A&M Forest Service awarded the Seminole Volunteer Fire Department a grant in the amount of $13,500 to help them purchase new rescue equipment. The department previously operated with little to no up-to-date rescue equipment. “With this grant we were able to replace some of our older rescue equipment,” Fire Chief Guy Guffey said. “The […]

NAVASOTA, Texas –– A $200,000 grant from Texas A&M Forest Service enabled White Hall Volunteer Fire Department to purchase a new tanker to help the VFD cover its nearly 50 square miles of response area. “We don’t have a surplus of equipment, and there isn’t a water supply out in the rural areas,” Fire ChiefFreeman […]

Emergency responders are invited to hone in their wildland firefighting skills at the 17th annual Mile High Wildfire Academy held at the Fort Davis Fire Department, February 19–22.

Emergency responders are invited to hone in their wildland firefighting skills at the 17th annual Mile High Wildfire Academy held at the Fort Davis Fire Department, February 19–22. The academy features wildland firefighting training for paid and volunteer departments, safety and fire operations courses in the wildland urban interface.

The Eden Volunteer Fire Department recently received a grant from Texas A&M ForestService to purchase new rescue equipment. “The old equipment took at least two people to operate it; one to watch the compressor andmanipulate the hose and the other to use the equipment. The new equipment is battery operated whichfrees up personnel to assist […]

Request for FEPP pickup or removal

Federal funding requirements for the Rural VFD Assistance Program

Texas A&M Forest Service recently awarded Hawley Volunteer Fire Department a grant in theamount of $100,000 to replace an old 1995 model used truck. “We didn’t have the money to do anything like this on our own,” Fire Chief Gaite Taylor said. “We needed this newequipment badly.” TFS passes approximately $12.8 million along to volunteer […]

GATESVILLE, Texas –– Turnersville Volunteer Fire Department recently replaced an old skid unit with a newer, saferpiece of equipment. This new skid unit will help them serve their community more effectively and was made available tothem through an $18,000 grant administered by Texas A&M Forest Service. “The truck we were using was not compliant with […]

WEATHERFORD, Texas – A $155,000 grant from Texas A&M Forest Service enabled Parker County / Spring Creek VFDto purchase a new brush truck to better cover its response area. “We are a fire department that has a lot of urban interface fires to cover,” Fire Chief George Teague said. “We only hadone class A engine […]

SHERIDAN, Texas –- Sheridan Volunteer Fire Department replaced a 40-year-old tanker with the help ofa $198,000 grant administered by Texas A&M Forest Service. The new tanker enables the department to offer more reliable service to its emergency service district. “We needed a new tanker badly,” Fire Chief Jason Pausewang said. “Our old one was having […]

BOLING, Texas – Boling Volunteer Fire Department received a $200,000 grant from Texas A&M Forest Service to helppurchase a new large brush truck through the 2604 Rural VFD Assistance Program. Previously, the department had to rely heavily on mutual aid to service the fires in its district. “There were no large brush trucks in our […]

A $99,900 grant from Texas A&M Forest Service allowed BrooksideVillage Volunteer Fire Department to purchase a new brush truck. Having previously operated an oldertruck that is now inoperable, this grant was much needed. “We didn’t have anything to work with,” Fire Chief Craig Bailey said. “Our old truck broke down and wecouldn’t afford a new […]

Texas A&M Forest Service awarded the Bay City Volunteer Fire Department a$100,000 grant to help them purchase a new brush truck to add to their aging fleet. “We were previously operating with two 1-ton pickups with skid units on the back, but they were bothgetting old and worn out,” Fire Chief James Svetlik said. “This […]

With the help of a $100,000 grant from Texas A&M Forest Service, Leon Springs Volunteer Fire Department was able to purchase a new brush truck. “With this grant we were able to replace an older model truck we were having problems with,” Fire Chief Bob Hardenstinesaid. “Our older trucks weren’t reliable, and we needed to […]

After being awarded a $100,000 grant from Texas A&M Forest Service, South LeeCo. Volunteer Fire Department was able to purchase a new brush truck to better serve its district andsurrounding areas.The VFD used this grant to upgrade from an old 1982 model truck, which they have been using since thedepartment started up. “This is an […]

Many volunteer fire departments struggle with funding when it comes to getting thenecessary equipment for serving and protecting their communities. Thanks to an $82,100 grant fromTexas A&M Forest Service, Three Oaks VFD purchased a new brush truck to replace one of its olderunits. “We didn’t have enough money to spend on a brand new truck,” […]

A new set of rescue tools for Kountze Volunteer Fire Department will mean faster and saferextrication from auto accidents. The tools were acquired through a $15,000 grant administered by Texas A&MForest Service. “The set of tools we were using before were over 30 years old,” Fire Chief Barry Mitchell said. “With the grant wewere able […]

WELLMAN, Texas — A $200,000 grant from Texas A&M Forest Service enabled Wellman Volunteer Fire Department toretire an old 1981 model fire truck with the addition of a brand new brush truck. “We are funded partly through the county, but our city is not connected to our fire department in any way, so all of […]

AQUA DULCE, Texas — For the Nueces Jim Wells County Emergency Service District #5 Volunteer Fire Department, a new tanker meant the difference in having to rely on mutual aid for on-scene water supplyand being able to provide it themselves. A grant in the amount of $200,000 from Texas A&M Forest Service helped the VFD […]

WELLS, Texas — A $17,300 grant administered by Texas A&M Forest Service helped Wells VolunteerFire Department update one of its trucks with a new slip-on unit. “We had an older skid unit on an ‘86 model truck that was donated by a member of the community,” FireChief Robert Kalka said. “We were able to put […]

BLACKWELL, Texas — An $18,000 grant from Texas A&M Forest Service helped Blackwell VolunteerFire Department purchase a new slip-on unit for one of their trucks. “We were in need of a new brush truck,” Fire Chief Randy Pieper said. “We put the slip-on unit on one ofour rescue trucks to update it.” The rescue truck […]

For the Nueces Jim Wells County Emergency Service District #5 Volunteer Fire Department, a new tanker meant the difference in having to rely on mutual aid for on-scene water supplyand being able to provide it themselves. A grant in the amount of $200,000 from Texas A&M Forest Service helped the VFD its first tanker. “We […]

ODESSA, Texas – With the help of a $155,000 grant from Texas A&M Forest Service, South EctorCounty Volunteer Fire Department replaced their 1976 model truck with a brand new brush truck. “We bought the old truck about three years ago,” Fire Chief John Bell said. “It was pretty much onits last leg.” The new brush […]

Firefighters from across the country will soon converge at Camp Swift in Bastrop, to attend one of the nation’s largest wildfire academies.

ALVORD, Texas — For Alvord Volunteer Fire Department, updating to a new slip-on unit with an $18,000grant from Texas A&M Forest Service made the difference in having reliable rescue trucks to serve itsdistrict. “We didn’t have the funds to purchase the equipment on our own,” Fire Chief Sam Hahn said. “Themajority of our funds come […]

After an accident that rendered their brush truck unusable, Warren Volunteer Fire Department soughthelp from Texas A&M Forest Service to get back on their feet. The result was a $79,500 grant through TFS’ Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. “We lost our brush truck in an accident and the insurance company wouldn’t cover it,” Warren […]

Previously operating with older trucks that required frequent maintenance, Pleasant GroveVolunteer Fire Department upgraded to a new brush truck with the help of a grant from Texas A&M Forest Service. “We are limited on our budget and really needed to upgrade our trucks,” Fire Chief Austin Padilla said. “We are retiringtwo older trucks that required […]

PARADISE, Texas — A $17,700 grant from Texas A&M Forest Service enabled the CottondaleVolunteer Fire Department to get a new skid unit for one of their trucks. With the addition of the new slip-on unit, the department was able to replace a 1996 model truckthat broke down on a fire a little over a year […]

SPRINGTOWN, Texas — A $36,000 grant from Texas A&M Forest Service enabled Aledo VolunteerFire Department to replace an antiquated skid unit on an older truck that was not in good repair. “Aledo is a rural VFD, but it has a pretty big response area,” Regional Fire Coordinator Keith Vaughansaid. “They are also currently in an […]

With the help of a $15,000 grant from Texas A&M Forest Service, Tulia VolunteerFire Department was able to upgrade its rescue equipment. “We had been operating with an older set of rescue tools for a while, so we needed to upgradethem,” Fire Chief Johnny Daniels said. “We’ve used this grant program several times – it […]

RIO GRANDE CITY, Texas — Volunteer Fire Departments often struggle to come up with the necessary funds tokeep their equipment up to date and running efficiently. For La Rosita VFD, a $173,000 grant from Texas A&MForest service helped them purchase a much needed new brush truck to add to their fleet. La Rosita VFD Fire […]

Union High Volunteer Fire Department received its first new brush truck with a $103,000 grant from Texas A&M Forest Service. The brush truck is equipped with a compressed air skid unit, something the department had not had access to previously. “This program is great because we operate mostly on fundraisers,” Fire Chief Leonard Mixon said. […]

LANEVILLE, Texas — Laneville Volunteer Fire Department updated its equipment with a $36,000grant for a new slip-on unit from Texas A&M Forest Service. The new unit comes stocked with a compressed air foam system and will help update thedepartment’s aging equipment, according to Fire Chief Samantha Cryer. “We had about $10,000 worth of repairs on […]

CRYSTAL CITY, Texas — Crystal City Volunteer Fire Department was awarded a $200,000 grant from theTexas A&M Forest Service to aid in purchasing a new tanker. The tanker was purchased through the Rural VFD Assistance Program, one of the many programs thatTFS offers to help improve and build upon the capacity of Texas VFDs. “Before […]

PARIS, Texas — For Lamar County Midway VFD, a new tanker is essential to better serve the southern part of thecounty. This is especially true since they previously relied on help from the northern half of the county for firerelief. A grant in the amount of $188,610 from Texas A&M Forest Service helped the department […]

CLEBURNE, Texas — Liberty Chapel Volunteer Fire Department recently updated one of its trucks with a new slip-on unitand small compressed air foam (CAF) system with the help of a $38,000 grant from Texas A&M Forest Service. The department previously purchased a new truck but wanted to put a larger tank and CAF unit on […]

ABILENE, Texas — A $155,000 grant from the Texas A&M Forest Service enabled Hamby VolunteerFire Department to upgrade from a 1984 model truck to a brand new tanker. “We applied for the grant so we could better the department and get newer and more modernequipment to serve our area,” Assistant Fire Chief Charles Tice said. […]

PORT ISABEL, Texas – For Port Isabel Volunteer Fire Department, a new tanker from the Texas A&MForest Service was necessary to help serve certain portions of the district that do not have access to firehydrants. The fire department struggled to serve some unincorporated areas of the city that had been experiencinga lot of grass and […]

The Camilla Twin Harbors Volunteer Fire Department is now better equippedto serve and protect the community after adding a new small brush truck to its response fleet withhelp from a grant administered by the Texas A&M Forest Service. “We were ecstatic when we got approval for our grant,” Fire Chief Cort Humes said. “We don’t […]

COUPLAND, Texas — With the most recent addition to Coupland Volunteer Fire Department’semergency equipment, a new slip-on unit purchased with help from a grant administered by theTexas A&M Forest Service, the department will have several new capabilities. CVFD received a grant in the amount of $26,775 from TFS to help pay for the new slip-on […]

VICTORIA, Texas — Victoria County Volunteer Fire Department recently purchased a new tanker with aid from a cost-share grant in the amount of $218,000 from the Texas A&M Forest Service to help better serve not only thevpeople of its fire district, but the entire county. The VFD had previously been operating with used vehicles, some […]

FRESNO, Texas — Fresno Volunteer Fire Department purchased a new tanker with the help of a$200,000 grant from Texas A&M Forest Service. The truck will replace an old 1986 homemade tanker that was built years ago by volunteers, according toFresno VFD Fire Chief Chris Tormey. “This is the first truck we’ve received through this program,” […]

Rosharon Volunteer Fire Department was able to purchase updated rescue equipment with a $12,500 grant from Texas A&M Forest Service. The grant purchased a new cutter, which is used for emergency extrication, as well as several AEDs and other rescue equipment to help the department better serve people in need. Rosharon VFD Fire Chief Joe […]

CROSS PLAINS, Texas — Cross Plains Volunteer Fire Department recently received a grant in theamount of $18,000 from Texas A&M Forest Service to purchase a new slip-on unit to put on one of theirfire trucks. Ever since the wildfire that wiped out much of Cross Plains in December 2005, the VFD has worked toimprove efficiency […]

Texas A&M Forest Service recently awarded a grant to the MeyersvilleVolunteer Fire Department for just over $96,000 to purchase a new small brush truck. Previously the department operated using two old trucks from the 1980s. According to MeyersvilleFire Chief Robert Moore, the old trucks were still workable, but it was time for an upgrade. “The […]

With the help of a grant provided by Texas A&M Forest Service, Placedo VolunteerFire Department purchased a new small brush truck for their department. “We receive most of our funds through donations and fundraisers, and everything we had was very oldand breaking down,” Placedo Fire Chief Robert Zapata said. “We only had one brush truck […]

After being inactive for a number of years, volunteers sought help from the TexasA&M Forest service to get Rochester Volunteer Fire Department back on its feet. The VFD acquired a new small brush truck paid for with a grant administered by TFS in the amount of$118,000. “We really needed this to be able to better […]

Previously operating with two older model trucks, Avery Volunteer Fire department wasrecently able to add a new brush truck to its fleet with help from the Texas A&M Forest Service’s Rural VFDAssistance Program. “The trucks they had were getting aged and had a lot of wear and tear,” TFS Regional Fire CoordinatorNathan Carroll said. “Having […]

TILDEN, Texas – With the recent Eagle Ford Shale oil boom, McMullen Volunteer Fire Department hasseen a quick rise in both the number of fires they have to fight and the number of people they have toserve on a daily basis. The shale formation that makes up Eagle Ford is about 12,000 feet down and […]

LAKE KIOWA, Texas — Indian Creek Volunteer Fire Department recently acquired a new tanker toreplace their old truck with the help of a $200,000 grant administered by Texas A&M Forest Service. ICVFD began providing fire and first responder services to the eastern portion of Cooke County inOctober of 2012, according to Assistant Fire Chief Bryan […]

WHITETAIL RIDGE, Texas –- Volunteer fire departments across the state of Texas often find themselvesstruggling to come up with the funds to purchase the essential equipment needed to serve and protectlives in their county. Whitetail Ridge VFD recently received a grant in the amount of $166,500 from Texas A&M Forest Serviceto purchase a new tanker. […]

Jasper Volunteer Fire Department recently purchased a new thermal imaging camerawith funds from a grant provided by Texas A&M Forest Service. “The camera itself will be used to find hidden hot spots in walls, ceiling, or attics,” Jasper Fire ChiefShawn Denovich said. “It can also be used during search and rescue.” The camera is useful […]

SABINAL, Texas — With the help of a $17,700 grant from Texas A&M Forest Service, Sabinal VolunteerThe Fire Department purchased a new slip-on unit for one of their fire trucks. The new unit gives the VFD extra water storage capacity when fighting fires. It is a self-contained unit thatconsists of a water storage tank, a […]

SUNSET, Texas — With help from Texas A&M Forest Service, the 20-member Sunset Volunteer Fire Department received funding to purchase a new slip-on unit for one of their fire trucks. “The pump they were using was worn down,” Tyler Raynes, TFS Regional Fire Coordinator, said. “It’s asmall department that’s not in a very populated county, […]

The East Leon County Volunteer Fire Department has a new ride. As a recipient of a $100,000 grant, the VFD purchased a small brush truck that will increase theiremergency response capabilities. The grant was provided through the Texas A&M Forest Service Rural Fire Department AssistanceProgram. “Without the help of the grant from TFS we would’ve […]

ETOILE, Texas — With the help of a $13,000 grant provided by Texas A&M Forest Service, Etoile VFDpurchased a new slip-on unit and is now better equipped to protect the community. The slip-on unit replaced an older model and comes with the added capability of a foam system andseveral hose reels to help efficiently fight […]

Silsbee VFD now has a new fire truck thanks to the help of a $78,000 grantadministered through Texas A&M Forest Service. The cost-share grant helped the fire department purchase a small brush truck that will enhance theiremergency response capabilities and better protect the community from fires. “Our new truck will be classified as a combination […]

ROBY, Texas -– An $18,000 grant helped Roby Volunteer Fire Department feel more confident in fightingfires. The grant provided through the Texas A&M Forest Service Rural Fire Department Assistance Programenabled Roby VFD to purchase a new skid unit, replacing an older unsafe model. “We built our previous unit from an agricultural tank that made handling […]

With the help of an $18,000 grant, the Mountain Home VFD will now be able to better protect the community from fires. The cost-share grant administered through Texas A&M Forest Service helped the fire department to purchase a new skid unit that will enhance their emergency response capabilities. The new piece of equipment will have […]

IREDELL, Texas — The Iredell Volunteer Fire Department can now fight fires more efficiently, thanks to a$18,000 grant. The grant was provided through the Texas A&M Forest Service Rural Fire DepartmentAssistance Program enabled Iredell VFD to purchase a new skid unit capable of holding 750 gallons ofwater. “This was an upgrade to a truck we’ve […]

MATHIS, Texas – With the help of a $200,000 grant the Mathis VFD will now be able to better protect the community fromfires. The cost-share grant administered through Texas A&M Forest Service helped the fire department to purchase a new truckthat will enhance their emergency response capabilities. “We are from a low-income town and didn’t […]

GRAHAM, Texas — With a grant of over $16,000, the Possum Kingdom Westside Volunteer FireThe department is now able to fight fires more efficiently. “Because county funds are widely dispersed among several fire departments, we never get enoughmoney to buy all the equipment we need,” said Jim Edmondson, Possum Kingdom’s former fire chief. “Thegrant enables […]

With a $15,000 grant the Groom Volunteer Fire Department is now able to better servecitizens traveling along Interstate 40. “We operate on a 24 mile stretch of the interstate, and are the primary rescuers for that area. Having anupdated set of tools will greatly help us take care of the citizens,” said Gary Babcock, Groom […]

MCADOO, Texas — With an $18,000 grant, the McAdoo Volunteer Fire Department is now able to fightfires more efficiently. “Without this grant, we wouldn’t have the ability to get additional resources, and now we have newcapabilities, which will be a great asset to us and the community,” said Dusty Harris, McAdoo VFDassistant fire chief. The […]

BROOKSTON, Texas –- A new fire truck for the Brookston Volunteer Fire Departmenthelps increase the department’s emergency response capabilities. “We didn’t have our own water source and the nearest hydrant is several miles away.Now we have our own water and don’t have to wait for another fire department to comeand provide assistance,” said Robert Patterson, […]

With the help of a $100,000 grant the Caddo VFD will now be able to better protect the community from fires. The cost-share grant administered through Texas A&M Forest Service helped the fire department to purchase a new truck that will enhance their emergency response capabilities. “This grant has given our department the ability to […]

A vision that started nearly four years ago is now complete thanks to a grant thatallowed the Eastland Volunteer Fire Department to purchase a foam system to better help fight fires. “We bought a fire truck a few years ago to start building it so that we could hold a rowe cast system,” saidDavid Branch, […]

Imagine the ability to spot an injured victim in the dark or getting an alert whentemperatures reach dangerous levels? For Albany Volunteer Fire Department, these things are now bothpossible. With the help of a grant provided by Texas A&M Forest Service, Albany VFD purchased its first thermalimaging camera. The new camera will have the capability […]

With the help of a $14,000 cost-share grant provided by Texas A&M ForestService, Erath County Volunteer Fire Rescue purchased its first thermal imaging camera. “This camera will be used for search and rescue to detect body heat and on fires if you are steamed outand can’t see the flames, it can detect unsafe conditions,” said […]

ROCKWALL, Texas –- The McLendon-Chisholm Volunteer Fire Department recently received a new fire truck that will helpprotect life and property in the event of a fire. With the help of a $200,000 grant through Texas A&M Forest Service, the department can better keep the communitysafe. ”This is the first fire engine we’ve had that was […]

The purchase of a small brush truck is sure to make a huge difference in how the Van Zandt-Midway VFD fights fires and responds to emergencies. With the help of over $98,000 in grant money, the Van Zandt-Midway VFD purchased a new fire truck that increases the department’s emergency response capabilities. “There’s no way we […]

ARTHUR CITY, Texas – The Chicota Volunteer Fire Department traded in its older engine for a newer model to increase emergency response capabilities. “We would not have been able to purchase a truck of this magnitude without the grant from Texas A&M Forest Service,”said Caleb Brewer, Chicota VFD chief. “We only paid 10 percent of […]

The Moore Volunteer Fire Department is now able to better protect the community after receiving a new fire engine. With the help of over $77,000 in grant funds from Texas A&M Forest Service, Moore VFD now has new means in protecting life and property in the event of a fire. “We had very old trucks […]

DAINGERFIELD, Texas –- The community of Rocky Branch has just become a bit more safe.The Rocky Branch Volunteer Fire Department has received a $200,000 grant through Texas A&M Forest Service to gotoward the purchase of a new fire engine. The award was presented to the VFD on the last week of February at a ceremony […]

The Kamay Fire Department in Wichita County has been awarded a $155,000 grant for the purchase of a new fire truck through the Texas A&M Forest Service. The cost-share grant, administered through the TFS Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program will help local firefighters better protect life and property. Six months after funds were awarded, […]

NIMS Resolution form for VFD

NIMS Resolution form for career FD

information on prescribed fire grant

Information on bi-monthly average price for pine sawlogs, pulpwood, chip-n-saw, hardwood sawlog, and hardwood pulpwood in East Texas

Information on bi-monthly average price for pine sawlogs, pulpwood, chip-n-saw, hardwood sawlog, and hardwood pulpwood in East Texas

Briefing on the compliance standards for FEPP

Texas A&M Forest Service approved an additional $17.6 million in funding to award 687 fire and rescue equipment grants and 66 dry hydrant grants to Texas volunteer fire departments today.

After devastating flooding that struck Central Texas this summer, three Texas volunteer fire departments received donations of essential emergency response equipment through Texas A&M Forest Service’s Helping Hands Program.

Thanks to a historic investment by the 89th Texas Legislature, Texas A&M Forest Service approved $164 million in funding to award 558 fire trucks and 321 slip-on units to Texas volunteer fire departments through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program today. The Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program was established by Texas House Bill […]

More than 200 emergency responders attended the 26th annual East Texas Wildfire and Incident Management Academy at Angelina College in Lufkin May 13-21, 2025, to grow their knowledge, skills and interagency coordination for combating wildfires and managing common complex, large-scale Texas disasters. The East Texas Interagency Wildfire and Incident Management Academy is held annually in […]

On March 5, 2025, Texas A&M Forest Service held the second of three funding meetings of fiscal year 2025 for the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program, awarding 94 grants totaling $2.1 million.      Grants proposed at this meeting will assist VFDs across Texas in purchasing equipment such as dry hydrants, fire and rescue equipment, personal […]

On Tuesday, April 2, Texas A&M Forest Service held the second of three funding meetings of fiscal year 2024 for the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program, awarding 74 grants totaling approximately $1.3 million.

Texas A&M Forest Service awards $15.7 million in grants to volunteer fire departments COLLEGE STATION, Texas – Texas A&M Forest Service awarded 260 rural volunteer fire departments with more than $15.7 million in assistance grants last week through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistant Grant Program.

October 4, 2023 25th Annual Wildfire Academy begins this week at Camp Swift BASTROP, Texas – The 25th annual Capital Area Interagency Wildfire and Incident Management Academy (CAIWA) begins at the Camp Swift National Guard Facility in Bastrop, Texas this week. The academy will take place Oct 6-18, 2022.

The Galena Park Fire Department in Harris County received a $17,160grant through the Texas A&M Forest Service Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. Thegrant was used to purchase tools to be used at emergency scenes where extrication is needed. The new equipment is portable and allows the department to better access people trapped in vehicleaccidents. […]

The Steele Creek Acres Volunteer Fire Department in Bosque County received a$16,371 grant through the Texas A&M Forest Service Rural Volunteer Fire Department AssistanceProgram. The grant was used to purchase fire and rescue equipment, including a thermal imaging camera,radios, a generator and a defibrillator. The equipment purchased through the grant will help firefighters work more […]

DIME BOX, Texas — The Dime Box Volunteer Fire Department of Lee County received a $110,000grant through the Texas A&M Forest Service Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program topurchase a small brush truck. The truck will be used to fight wildland fires as well as traffic control and general response. The truck isfully equipped to […]

LINDEN, Texas — The Linden Volunteer Fire Department in Cass County used a $240,000 grant fromTexas A&M Forest Service’s Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program to purchase a largebrush truck. The 2023 International chassis is equipped with a 600-gallon water tank, custom-built pump package,large storage boxes, winch, and extrication equipment. The truck will be used […]

REKLAW, Texas — The Reklaw Volunteer Fire Department in Cherokee County received a surplusmilitary truck through the Texas A&M Forest Service Department of Defense Firefighter PropertyProgram. The department also received a $20,000 grant through the Rural Volunteer Fire DepartmentAssistance Program to install a firefighting unit on the truck. The truck, a Stewart and Stevenson M1078, […]

The Holiday Lake Estates Volunteer Fire Department in Polk County used a $20,000 grant to equip a pickup with a firefighting apparatus that includes a water tank and foam unit.The grant was awarded through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program, which is administered by Texas A&M Forest Service. Chief Arthur West said the apparatus, […]

The Salt Creek Rural Volunteer Fire Department in Young County has added anew truck to its fleet after receiving a $110,000 grant through the Rural Volunteer Fire DepartmentAssistance Program administered by Texas A&M Forest Service. The truck, a 2023 Freightliner, replaces a truck that was manufactured in 1987 and marks a milestonefor the department in […]

PAINT ROCK, Texas — The Lake O.H. Ivie Volunteer Fire Department in northern Concho Countyused a $220,000 grant from the Texas A&M Forest Service Rural Volunteer Fire Department AssistanceProgram to purchase a truck for wildland firefighting. The 2023 Freightliner is equipped with a 1,250gallon water tank as well as a foam system. The primary functions […]

OYSTER CREEK, Texas — Oyster Creek Community Volunteer Fire Department received a $20,000grant through the Texas A&M Forest Service Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program topurchase a slip-on unit. A slip-on unit is a firefighting apparatus designed for the back of a truck that can be used duringwildland, structure, and automobile fires to supply water. […]

Ferris Fire Department received a $20,000 grant from Texas A&M Forest ServiceRural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. The grant was used to purchase an ArticCompressor that will be used to fill Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) bottles. The department has struggled with the lag time between SCBA bottle refills and relied on other fire departments as […]

The Giddings Volunteer Fire Department used a $8,825 grant from Texas A&MForest Service’s Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program to purchase a forcible-entrytraining aid. The training prop will be used to teach department members techniques for gaining access to structuresduring emergencies. Chief Charlie Brown said the department will begin training on the device nextweek. The […]

FLATONIA, Texas — Flatonia Fire and Rescue of Fayette County received a surplus military truckthrough the Department of Defense Firefighter Property Program. It also received a $20,000 grant thatallowed it to purchase a 500-gallon slip-on unit. The truck will be used as a brush truck and wildland firefighting vehicle with off-road capability. Itshigh clearance will […]

HENDERSON, Texas — The Carlisle Volunteer Fire Department received a surplus military truckthrough the Department of Defense Firefighter Property Program. This is one of the hundreds of trucksthat have been transferred at no cost to Texas volunteer fire departments. The department also received a$20,000 grant for a slip-on unit through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department […]

HUNTSVILLE, Texas — The Riverside Volunteer Fire Department of Walker County received a$100,000 grant through the Texas A&M Forest Service Rural Volunteer Fire Department AssistanceProgram to purchase a small brush truck. The truck will be used to fight wildland fires and respond to water rescues. The truck is outfitted withfoam and a skid unit, fully […]

Liberty County Emergency Services District (ESD) No. 7 received a grant for$10,000 to purchase a forcible entry training aid. Funding was provided by the Texas A&M ForestService Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. The training aid will be used to teach forcible-entry techniques, making the department faster and moreproficient in gaining access to structure during […]

Hardin County Emergency Services District (ESD) No. 5 received a $10,000 grant that allowed for the purchase of a Dell computer, training videos and mannequin. The training aidsgrant was provided by the Texas A&M Forest Service Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. The department responds to numerous medical calls and the training aids will be […]

ABBOTT, Texas — The Abbott Volunteer Fire Department of Hill County received a $20,000 grant through the Texas A&M Forest Service Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program to install a slip-on unit on a surplus military vehicle, that was provided through the Department of Defense Firefighter Property Program. This truck is one of hundreds that […]

Texas A&M Forest Service is offering new Volunteer Recruitment Resources grants designed to help Texas volunteer fire departments strengthen their workforce and enhance community fire protection.

RICHMOND, Texas — Pecan Grove Volunteer Fire Department received a surplus military truck through the Texas A&M Forest Service Department of Defense Firefighter Property Program. The department also received a $20,000 grant through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program to install a slip-on unit to the truck. The truck will be used as a […]

The Eastside Volunteer Fire Department of Rusk County received a$18,000 grant through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. This grant was used topurchase fire and rescue equipment. The departments new rescue tool kit will help stabilize vehicles when extrication is needed. The departments previous set will still be used, but the new one will […]

MARION, Texas — West Mountain Volunteer Fire Department (Upshur County) donated two Type IIfire engines to Gray Volunteer Fire Department (Marion County) in a direct donation through the TexasA&M Forest Service’s Helping Hands program. Winter Storm Uri in 2021 caused catastrophic freeze damage to Gray Volunteer Fire Department’s fireengines. Because of an annual operating budget […]

HART, Texas — The Hart Volunteer Fire Department of Castro County received a $220,000 grant from the Texas A&M Forest Service Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program to purchase a large brush truck. The 2022 Freightliner has a 1,500-gallon tank. The primary function of the brush truck is to fight brush fires and provide mutual […]

WOODSON, Texas — The Woodson Volunteer Fire Department received a surplus military vehicle, provided by the Texas A&M Forest Service through the Department of Defense Fire Firefighter Property Program. The department also received a $20,000 grant through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program to install a slip-on unit to the truck.  The truck has […]

Since Jan. 1, firefighters with Texas A&M Forest Service and local fire departments saved 8,056 homes in the path of wildfire. Many of those homes had the first layers of protection — defensible space and fire-resistant construction materials — before fire crews arrived.

Melissa Volunteer Fire Department in Collin County received a $10,000 grant topurchase a forcible entry training aid. The training aid will allow firefighters to practice emergency entries. The department would like to thank Texas A&M Forest Service for providing the grant and allowing thedepartment to increase its capabilities. As a member agency of the Texas […]

Austonio Volunteer Fire Department in Houston County received a $19,000grant for new fire and rescue equipment. The department purchased three air packs and face masks, thatwill replace old equipment. The department is making strides in protecting its firefighters. “The new equipment is safer and willmake our firefighters lives easier. They can trust the equipment now, […]

Covington Volunteer Fire Department of Hill County, received an $18,000grant through the Texas A&M Forest Service Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. Thegrant was used to purchase rescue tools. The cutter and spreader the department bought will be used at emergency scenes where extrication isneeded. The new equipment replaces older extrication equipment. This will allow […]

Oyster Creek Community Volunteer Fire Department received a $50,000grant to purchase a small truck chassis. This grant was made possible through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. The truck will be used primarily as a brush truck to improve the department’s capabilities during grassfires. The truck will also be used to pull the department’s […]

China Spring Volunteer Fire Department received a grant through the Texas A&M Forest Service Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. The $220,000 grant was used to purchase a tender.

Kaufman Volunteer Fire Department has purchased a training door prop througha grant from the Texas A&M Forest Service Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. The department will use the training door prop to practice forcible entry scenarios. Using this prop willhelp emergency responders enter emergency situations faster and more effectively. The Kaufman Volunteer Fire Department […]

West Lake Limestone Volunteer Fire Department received a grant through theTexas A&M Forest Service Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program to purchase trainingaids. The $10,000 grant aided in the purchase of an Intelligent Training System Base Unit andcontroller. The equipment will be used to provide live fire training to members of the department. It will […]

FRED, Texas — Fred Volunteer Fire Department received an $18,000 grant from the Rural VolunteerAssistance Program to purchase a skid unit for a small brush truck. The skid unit was placed on the back of a small brush truck the department already owned. With the new addition, the department has a reliable small brush truck […]

Cason Volunteer Fire Department of Morris County received a $110,000grant to purchase a large truck chassis and slip-on unit to better serve its community. The grant wasmade possible through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. The unit will be used for quick attacks of grass fires and structure fires. It will also be used […]

The Marlin Volunteer Fire Department has purchased a specialized washingmachine that is designed to remove carcinogens and other contaminants from personal protectiveequipment worn by firefighters. The purchase was made possible with a $20,000 grant from the RuralVolunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. The department also used the grant to purchase dual purpose gear. In recent years, […]

The 24th annual Capital Area Interagency Wildfire and Incident Management Academy (CAIWA) begins at the Camp Swift National Guard Facility in Bastrop, Texas this week.

Texas A&M Forest Service hosted the second annual Sisters in Fire event at the city of Abilene Fire Department Training Facility on Oct. 1.

CROCKETT, Texas — The Crockett Fire Department received a surplus military vehicle that wasprovided through the Department of Defense Firefighter Property Program. It also received a $20,000grant through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program to install a slip-on unit on thetruck. The truck has been painted nonmilitary colors, which is a stipulation of receiving […]

Last week, a Texas A&M Forest wildfire handcrew was mobilized to the Cedar Creek Fire in Oregon.

Livingston Volunteer Fire Department received a $20,000 grant to purchasenew fire/rescue equipment through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance. This grant was usedto purchase a spreader, cutter and ram for use in vehicle extrications and in forcible entry at emergencyscenes. The department would like to thank the Texas A&M Forest Service for the grant that […]

The Punkin-Evergreen Volunteer Fire Department received a forcible entrysimulator for training purposes. The simulator was made possible through a grant from the Texas A&MForest Service. The simulator will allow firefighters to practice forcible entry scenarios. The simulator has already beenused several times. Punkin-Evergreen VFD needs new members to help in all aspects of the department. […]

PINELAND, Texas — Pineland Volunteer Fire Department received a $20,000 grant through the RuralVolunteer Fire Department Assistance Program to install a slip-on unit on a surplus military vehicle, thatwas provided through the Department of Defense Firefighter Property Program. The truck has been painted nonmilitary colors, which was a stipulation of receiving the truck, and it […]

Coupland Volunteer Fire Department received a grant of over $16,000 to buynew fire and rescue equipment. The grant was made possible through Texas A&M Forest Service’sRural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. The cutter and spreader that the department purchased can be used to rescue and extricate victims ofvehicle crashes and assist in making forcible entry […]

ALBANY, Texas — The Albany Volunteer Fire Department received a grant to purchase a slip-on unitthat was installed on a surplus military truck. The $15,800 grant was made possible through the RuralVolunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. The slip-on unit will be used in the suppression of wildfires, and it carries a larger amount of water […]

Sherwood Shores Volunteer Fire Department received a $20,000 grantthrough the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. The grant allowed the department tobuy tools used to rescue and extricate victims of vehicle crashes and assist in making forcible entry atemergency scenes. The tools are battery powered, making them easier for fire crews to manage without worrying […]

Manvel Volunteer Fire Department has received a new specialized washer that isdesigned to remove carcinogens and other contaminants from personal protective equipment worn byfirefighters. This washer was made possible with a $13,500 grant from the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. In recent years, fire agencies have become increasingly aware of the hazards associated with […]

The Crims Chapel Volunteer Fire Department has purchased a new cutter andspreader through a grant from the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. The rescue equipment will be used in vehicle extrication and general rescues. The tools will be placed on the department’s primary rescue unit, allowing the older set to be placed onanother unit. […]

A Large Truck Chassis and slip-on unit have been awarded to the ColemanVolunteer Fire Department through a grant from the Texas A&M Forest Service Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. With the grant, the department has assembled a new fire truck. The truck will help in the suppression ofwildfires and will increase the response capabilities […]

TRENT, Texas — Trent Volunteer Fire Department purchased a small brush truck through the RuralVolunteer Fire Department Grant Assistance Program. The small brush truck will aid in brush and grass fires, as well as in wrecks and structural fires. It isequipped with a 400-gallon water tank and can hold 10 gallons of foam. The new […]

The Log Cabin Volunteer Fire Department of Henderson County received a new tender through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. The new truck is a replacement for a 1989 model tanker that will be sold to another department.

The Haskell Fire Department received a new extrication cutter and spreaderthrough the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Grant Assistance Program. These tools are used to rescue and extricate victims of vehicle crashes and assist in making forcibleentry at emergency scenes. The department’s previous extrication cutter and spreader were no longeroperational, significantly limiting its their response capacity. […]

The Emory Volunteer Fire Department in Rains County has purchased a new tender through the Texas A&M Rural Volunteer Fire Department Grant Assistance Program. The tender is equipped with a 1,500-gallon tank and will be used to assist in fires where there are no fire hydrants or as a standalone engine for structure fires. Around […]

DIANA, Texas — Diana Volunteer Fire Department purchased a new vehicle with funds from the RuralVolunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. The vehicle will primarily be used in brush, grass, and wildland fires. The vehicle will allow firefightersthe ability to reach areas that might not be accessible by other vehicles. The Ford F350 pickup It isalso […]

Orange County Emergency Services District #1 recently received extrication tools fundedthrough a grant from Texas A&M Forest Service’s Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. These tools, known as the Jaws of Life, will be used to extricate people trapped in vehicle crashes. The toolsare battery powered, making them easier for fire crews to manage without […]

The Beach City Volunteer Fire Department used a $20,000 grant from the RuralVolunteer Fire Departments Assistance Program to purchase much-needed fire/rescue equipment such asthermal imaging cameras, rescue tools and other firefighting accessories. The equipment will help protect firefighters, assist with extrications and expand capabilities for thedepartment and other firefighting agencies in Chambers County. Fire Chief […]

CELESTE, Texas — The Celeste Volunteer Fire Department in Hunt County recently received a new slipon unit through a grant from the Texas A&M Forest Service Rural Volunteer Fire Department AssistanceProgram. A slip-on unit is a firefighting apparatus designed for the back of a truck. It is used during wildland,structure and automobile fires as a […]

There is potential for large wildfires to occur today that may outpace firefighters’ suppression efforts in areas near Childress, Lubbock, Abilene, Mineral Wells, Brownwood, Midland, San Angelo, Fredericksburg, Del Rio, Laredo and Brownsville.

HILLTOP LAKES, Texas — Hilltop Lakes Volunteer Fire Department, Inc. recently received a smallbrush truck cost-share grant through Texas A&M Forest Service. Members of the VFD said that thisnew addition to their department will increase their fire suppression capabilities, enabling them to have amore powerful response for their community. A big check presentation was held […]

Wildfire potential increases today for large, difficult to control wildfires to occur in Southwest Texas, specifically for areas near Del Rio, San Angelo, San Antonio and Laredo.

Increased wildfire activity will be supported Friday through Sunday by warm and dry conditions and critically dry vegetation in the Western Plains, Hill Country and Cross Timbers.

ROCKDALE, Texas – Minerva Volunteer Fire Department increased their fleet capacity by adding an excessmilitary truck and slip-on unit. The truck is provided through the Department of Defense Firefighter PropertyProgram and the slip-on unit through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. “This new addition will increase our wildland firefighting power and our ability for […]

MCGREGOR, Texas – Texas A&M Forest Service awarded McGregor Volunteer Fire Department an excessmilitary truck through the Department of Defense Firefighter Property Program. The truck will help increase the department’s firefighting capacity and will be a dual-purpose apparatus serving wildland firefighting and high-water rescues. Accompanying the truck, McGregor VFD also received a $20,000 grant through […]

The Texas A&M Forest Service Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Programawarded a $10,000 grant to the Weston Volunteer Fire Department to help them purchase trainingequipment. The department purchased wildland training shelters, blackout masks, blast masks, a smoke machine andforcible entry door, all to aid in training. Wildland training shelters are a last resort for firefighters […]

A Southern Plains Wildfire Outbreak occurred across the panhandle of Texas, Oklahoma and Kansas on Wednesday.

ROCKDALE, Texas –- Rockdale Volunteer Fire Department converted an excess military tactical vehicle into a firefighting machine. The large quantity of water that it will carry will help the department gain quick control of a fire. The military vehicle was awarded through the Department of Defense Firefighter Property Program. The department also accepted a $20,000 […]

VICTORIA, Texas –- The Raisin Volunteer Fire Department converted an excess military truck into a firefightingmachine with the help of a $20,000 grant. The grant is through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department AssistanceProgram, which was used to purchase a new slip-on unit. The truck is received through the DoD Firefighter Property Program, both programs are […]

COVINGTON, Texas — The Covington Volunteer Fire Department replaced an older slip-on unit thanks to a$20,000 cost share grant through the Texas A&M Forest Service Rural Volunteer Fire DepartmentAssistance Program. “Our department is glad to have this new addition to replace a unit that is over 10 years old and was startingto have mechanical issues,” […]

HORSESHOE BAY, Texas –- Sandy Harbor Volunteer Fire Department added a 2021 Dodge brush truck to theirfleet thanks to a $100,000 cost share grant through the Texas A&M Forest Service Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. “The main purpose of this truck will be as a light brush truck used in fast response to brush/grass […]

Beasley Fire Department added a 2022 tanker to their fleet thanks to a $220,000 grant through the Texas A&M Forest Service Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. The primary purpose of a tanker is to keep a supply of water available to firefighters, aiding in fire suppression. “This 3,000-gallon tanker will bring greater capabilities by […]

CHICO, Texas – Wise County Sand Flat Fire Department now has immediate access to 800 gallons of waterthanks to a $200,000 cost share grant through the Texas A&M Forest Service Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. “The primary mission of this new truck will be to extinguish brush fires as well as shuttle water to […]

REAGAN, Texas –- Reagan Volunteer Fire Department received a $70,000 grant from the Texas A&MForest Service Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. Thanks to this cost-share grant, the department now has a rugged firefighting machine. “We appreciate having the opportunity to add a 2021 apparatus to our fleet,” said Reagan VFD Fire ChiefRonnie Brown. “About […]

BLOOMBURG, Texas –- As a first line of defense against wildland fires, volunteer fire departments play avital role in the protection of the rural areas of Texas. Cass County ESD #3 enhanced their fleet with aStewart Stevenson military truck thanks to the Department of Defense Firefighter Property Program that waslaunched in Texas in 2005 by […]

MARLIN, Texas – Marlin Volunteer Fire Department was first to be called out to what became the 96-acreRice Road fire. Their new excess military truck addition was instrumental in helping the department fight a sixhour long battle along with other area fire departments and Texas A&M Forest Service. “The Stewart Stevenson did very well in […]

Noonday Volunteer Fire Department increased the department’s rescue capacity byadding battery powered rescue tools to their cache. “Noonday VFD added two sets of extrication tools to their engines with a grant from the Texas A&M ForestService Rural VFD Assistance Program and another entity,” said Texas A&M Forest Service Regional FireCoordinator Josh Bardwell. “The VFD has […]

Lakeview Volunteer Fire Department received the first new addition to their fleet in twenty years thanks to a cost share grant through the Texas A&M Forest Service Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. “We are very pleased to receive a grant to help purchase a new 1,500-gallon water tender,” said Lakeview VFD Fire Chief Bob […]

HILLSBORO, Texas – Peoria Volunteer Fire Department acquired a 2022 brush truck thanks to a cost sharegrant through the Texas A&M Forest Service Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. Thetruck has an 800-gallon water tank and foam capability. “This new brush truck can not only shuttle a large quantity of water as a first-out truck […]

LOTT, Texas — The Lott City Fire Company added new water monitors to their brush truck and engine,doubling their options for fighting fire. The additions were purchased thanks to a cost-share grant through theTexas A&M Forest Service Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. A fixed water monitor is known by several names, deluge gun, fire […]

ARANSAS PASS, Texas –- The Aransas Pass Fire Department added an excess Stewart Stevenson military truck to their fleet, and it is uniquely dedicated to the 761st United States Army Battalion that served under General GeorgePatton during World War II. The Battalion became known for their bravery, commitment and distinguished combatrecord. “Our department dedicates our […]

Five Star Volunteer Fire Department added a 2022 Kenworth pumper/tanker that will be the first out apparatus for all Titus County structure fires. The new addition was made possible with a cost share grant received from the Texas A&M Forest Service Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. “This new 2,000-gallon water pumper/tanker will help our […]

KEMPNER, Texas –- Kempner Volunteer Fire Department converted a Stewart Stevenson 5-ton excess military truckinto a large brush truck. The truck was received from Texas A&M Forest Service through the Department of DefenseFirefighter Property Program. Upon acceptance of the truck, the department met the conversion challenge by doing the work in house while keepingin mind […]

The Iowa Colony Volunteer Fire Department added a new fire truck to their fleet thanks to a cost share grant from Texas A&M Forest Service through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. It has a 1,000-gallon water tank, foam capability and is now in service. “Our department’s planning committee spent many hours in designing […]

Purley Volunteer Fire Department received a $220,000 cost share grant through the Texas A&M Forest Service Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program to help purchase a 2021 Kenworth pumper/tender with a 2,000-gallon water tank and a 2,000-gallon portable drop tank. “This pumper will be taking the place of an older apparatus in our fleet with […]

Up-to-date equipment can improve safety procedures in times of response while protectingfirefighters and public a like. West Mountain Volunteer Fire Department received a $19,800 grant to help purchaseseveral pieces of fire/rescue equipment. “One of our major upgrades is six new radios with 25-channel frequencies,” said West Mountain VFD Fire ChiefSteve Bayne. “Communication is the key […]

COLEMAN, Texas –- The Glen Cove Volunteer Fire Department, converted a 2.5-ton excess military StewartStevenson into a firefighting machine with a 500-gallon water tank and foam capability. The truck wasawarded through the Department of Defense Firefighter Property Program, and the slip-on unit waspurchased with a grant through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program, both […]

Brownsboro Volunteer Fire Department received two grants totaling $67,800through the Texas A&M Forest Service Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. The grantshelped the department purchase a truck chassis and a slip-on unit which were utilized to build a new brushtruck. “This 2020 brush truck is replacing a 2006 truck that had a smaller water tank […]

RIO BRAVO, Texas –- Rio Bravo Volunteer Fire Department received a cost-share grant to help purchase a brush truck through the Texas A&M Forest Service Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. The new brush truck has a 500-gallon water tank and foam capability. “Our department is very pleased to have this brush truck in our […]

Noonday Volunteer Fire Department accepted delivery of a new pumper/water tender. This new addition to their fleet was made possible thanks to a cost share grant from Texas A&M Forest Service through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. “Noonday Volunteer Fire Department’s new pumper-tender is a versatile apparatus that will allow the firefighters to […]

HUGHES SPRINGS, Texas – Hughes Springs Volunteer Fire Department replaced a 1985 tanker with anexcess military Stewart Stevenson. Upon accepting the truck, the department had to meet certain obligationswithin 180 days. These obligations included painting it a nonmilitary color and converting it into an emergencyresponse vehicle able to perform an emergency response function. The truck […]

PAYNE SPRINGS, Texas –- Increasing firefighting capacity can sometimes be a matter of having the rightequipment. Payne Springs Volunteer Fire Department added a new brush truck to their fleet to help with firesuppression in their growing wildland interface thanks to a grant through the Rural Volunteer Fire DepartmentAssistance Program. “We replaced a 2009 brush truck […]

NACOGDOCHES, Texas –- Loco Valley Volunteer Fire Department acquired a new 2020 brush truck thanks to a$100,000 cost share grant through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. “Our new F550 brush truck has four-wheel-drive, a 300-gallon water tank, foam capability, and front bumper sprayersmaking it useful when responding to wildland and structure fires,” said […]

Bowman Community Volunteer Fire Department received a $220,000 cost share grant to help purchase a 2021 Kenworth water tender with updates that will revolutionize and strengthen their firefighting fleet. “This tender is replacing two apparatus in the department’s fleet, a 1995 tender that also had a 3,000-gallon water tank but no drop tank and an […]

GARRISON, Texas — Garrison Volunteer Fire Department shares hope and support for the community byliterally showing their colors when converting an excess 6×6 military truck. The truck was received through theDepartment of Defense Firefighter Property Program and the slip-on unit is through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program, both administered by Texas A&M Forest […]

Apple Springs Volunteer Fire Department received a $9,700 grant through theRural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program to help purchase a multi force training door. “We are pleased to have received a training aid grant to help purchase a piece of equipment that is a first forTrinity County,” said Apple Springs VFD President Gary Mathison. “It […]

HUNTSVILLE, Texas –- Crabbs Prairie Volunteer Fire Department welcomes a new 2021 Ford F550 brush truckthanks to a $118,000 cost share grant through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. Thetruck will be used to fight grass and wildland fires, manage traffic control after a vehicle accident, and carrymedical equipment. “The addition of this new […]