July 2024

The Rural Fire Protection (RFP) Program within the Arkansas Department of Agriculture’s Forestry Division is dedicated to assisting communities and fire departments in protecting lives, property, and the environment.

Spotlight: Lake Hamilton Fire Department

Lake Hamilton Fire Department in Garland County received a 1992 Freightliner M915A2 that was converted into a 2,000-gallon tanker truck from the Rural Fire Protection Program. The fire department also received $5,000 in assistance through a refurbishment grant for the vehicle.

Pictured from left are Firefighter Chip Shortreed, Fire Chief Doug Davey, Rural Fire Administrator Kathryn Mahan-Hooten, and Firefighter Chris Fee.

Spotlight: Pine Village Fire Department

Pine Village Fire Department in Faulkner County purchased a 1995 E-One Tanker/Pumper with the assistance of an interest free loan offered by the Rural Fire Protection Program. The truck was purchased out-of-state and the program provided transportation at no charge to the fire department.

Pictured from left are Board Member Larry Brewer, Fire Chief Chris Kellum, and Board Member William Martin.

What's in the Warehouse?

The Rural Fire Protection Program's warehouse has moved! While still located at 20 Industrial Blvd. in Greenbrier, the warehouse is now in a larger insulated building. Please be sure to check in at the front desk before proceeding to the warehouse.

Note: The RFP Program does not hold items that are available in the warehouse.

Cold Weather Shirts (sizes available: 2XL regular, long, and extra long)

Field Packs (options available with and without frames)

7 kW Generator (hours unknown)

Tool Cabinets

Assault Packs

Sleeping Bags

Firehose (various sizes available up to 5 inch)

Save the Date: 2024 Rural Fire Show

Don't miss the 2024 Rural Fire Show! This is an annual, free appreciation event for Arkansas firefighters and their families. This year's event will be held on Saturday, October 5, 2024, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Conway Expo & Event Center.

There will be door prizes, vendors, demonstrations, and a BBQ lunch provided. This year, there will be two training opportunities:

Morning Session: Insurance Service Office

Afternoon Session: Conventional Missing Person Search

To RSVP, please send your fire department name and number of people attending to lisa.k.clark@agriculture.arkansas.gov or call (501) 679-3171.

For additional information, call (501) 679-3581 or visit our website.