FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Monday, September 16, 2024
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Gov. Justice, Division of Forestry unveil new firefighting equipment ahead of fire season in West Virginia
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MULLENS, WV — Gov. Jim Justice and the West Virginia Division of Forestry (WV DOF) today announced the arrival of vital new firefighting equipment to be used across West Virginia.
The new equipment includes:
- Two Type 3 Bulldozers equipped with specialized forestry and firefighting packages.
- Three Type 6 Wildland Fire Engines designed specifically for combating wildfires.
- Six new drones equipped with thermal imaging technology to assist in fire detection.
- Eight UTVs outfitted with skid units and water tanks for improved wildfire response in hard to reach areas.
- Seventeen pickup trucks fitted with skid units for enhanced firefighting capabilities.
"With fire season just around the corner in West Virginia, it's perfect timing to get this new equipment," Gov. Justice said. "Our hardworking Forestry members deserve every bit of this new gear. These aren't just new dozers and trucks, they're difference makers in protecting our forests and citizens. The day they received this machinery, they immediately put it to use to tackle a fire. That's how bad these guys needed new equipment. We need to keep doing all we can to ensure they have what they need to protect our beautiful forests and keep our homes safe. This drought is also making things worse, and as it gets dry, things could really get bad. I'm really praying we get some rain soon, but we've got to be ready for whatever comes our way. At least we know that if disaster does strike, our teams are ready to face the challenge head-on with safe and reliable equipment."
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In 2023, Gov. Justice signed SB 1032, which provided $4 million toward new equipment. These funds were allocated by the West Virginia Legislature to purchase equipment to assist WV DOF foresters in fighting wildfires.
The new equipment was revealed at Twin Falls Resort State Park in conjunction with the Division of Forestry’s bi-annual Fire School, which provides basic fire training for all new employees at the WV DOF, West Virginia Department of Natural Resources Wildlife Section and West Virginia State Parks. In addition to protecting West Virginia's forests and fighting wildfires, crews from WV DOF volunteer to assist with wildfire relief efforts in other states.
West Virginia's Fall Fire Season starts on October 1st, and burning regulations can be found HERE.
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“We are grateful for the leadership of Gov. Justice and the legislature for their support and the commitment of the employees of WV Division of Forestry as they work each day to protect the people, property and wonderful forests in our state,” James Bailey, Secretary of the WV Department of Commerce, said. “Although Fall Fire Season officially begins October 1, our foresters work tirelessly year-round to protect one of our state’s most valuable assets. We ask the public to be cautious and careful as they enjoy the outdoors.”
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“We sincerely thank Gov. Justice and the West Virginia Legislature for this historic investment,” Jeremy Jones, WV DOF Director/State Forester said. “This equipment not only creates more efficient ways for us to fight fires around the state - and the nation but it increases our capabilities to fight fires in remote and hard-to-access locations. Not only is this the first time we have had dozers, it’s the first time WV DOF has had nationally certified fire engines. Most importantly, this equipment provides a safer way for us to keep our beautiful state and our communities safe.”
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