BLM Nevada News
ELY DISTRICT OFFICE NO. 2009-006
FOR RELEASE:  Wednesday, Nov. 12, 2008
CONTACT:  Chris Hanefeld, (775) 289-1842; chris_hanefeld@nv.blm.gov

City of Ely Fire Department Recipient of BLM-donated Fire Engine

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Ely District Friday transferred to the City of Ely Fire Department a 900-gallon wildland fire engine to aid in local wildfire-fighting efforts.  The equipment transfer was made possible by the Rural Fire Assistance (RFA) program, which is funded annually through congressional appropriations.  The Ely Volunteer Fire Department provided matching funds.

“The (RFA) program increases local firefighter safety, enhances fire protection capabilities of volunteer and tribal fire departments, and places a substantial cooperative role in the protection of federal lands,” said Ray Maestes, assistant fire management officer for the BLM Ely District.

RFA funding provides technical assistance, training, supplies and materials, and equipment, as well as opportunities to participate in interagency educational and prevention activities, and proficiency exercises.  RFA supports the National Fire Plan by improving the capacity and capability of local fire departments to protect their communities from the effects of wildland fire.

The Ely District this fiscal year received $65,000 in RFA funding.  The district has so far provided eight rural fire departments with such items as communications equipment, personal protective equipment (PPE), and fire prevention and training materials.

-BLM-