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Boise, Idaho – Today, the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) transferred a surplus wildland fire engine to the Owyhee Rangeland Fire Protection Association (RFPA) in Jordan Valley, Oregon. The Type 4 wildland engine can hold over 800 gallons of water and is equipped with its own pump system. 

The transfer took place as part of BLM’s Rural Fire Readiness program, which helps boost the crucial role of rural cooperators in wildland firefighting. The program gives the BLM not only the ability to transfer equipment at no cost, but also tools, protective gear and training to RFPAs and volunteer and rural fire departments. 

“Having an engine with four-wheel drive that holds so much water is really beneficial,” said Teo Maestrejuan, Owyhee RFPA Chair. “This engine makes us much more diversified.”

The RFPAs are all-volunteer organizations comprised of ranchers and farmers in remote areas who proactively provide initial attack against new fires and respond alongside BLM firefighters. They are often closest to a fire when it starts, bringing local knowledge of road access to remote areas and a passionate motivation to protect the land. 

The equipment, training and communication procedures used by RFPA members allow them to seamlessly integrate with BLM firefighting operations. The Owyhee RFPA has assisted the BLM on multiple wildland fires since its inception in 2012, most notably on the nearly 280,000-acre Soda Fire in 2015. 

“The RFPAs play a critical role in fighting wildland fires in Idaho,” said Russ Babiak, BLM Boise District Fire Management Officer. “Any time we can assist a local cooperator—be it through training or equipment—it’s a win-win situation that continues to promote a safe and effective wildland firefighting community.”

Last year, southwestern Idaho had 147 wildfires that burned 80,606 acres. The BLM works closely with other federal and state agencies, local fire departments and RFPAs to respond to wildland fires.