Commissioners approve $4,500 to Post Paulina Rangeland Fire Protection Association for equipment resupply

The Crook County Board of Commissioners on April 2 approved a $4,500 appropriation to the Post Paulina Rangeland Fire Protection Association to resupply radios, hand tools, hoses, small pumps and spare tires after an intense 2024 fire season.

Melissa Hartzell, secretary-treasurer for the Post Paulina Rangeland Fire Protection Association, told the board volunteers logged 2,700 hours, spent 32 days fighting 11 fires and traveled more than 5,000 miles in 2024. She said the association did not use the state "fire camp" resource and relied on local volunteers, donated meals and community support.

Hartzell asked the board for $4,500 to replenish equipment stocks. Commissioner motioning led the board to approve the payment; the motion carried with recorded affirmative votes. Hartzell thanked the county and said Senator Merkley plans to honor the association at an upcoming town hall.

Hartzell also noted two bills in the legislature she described as beneficial for rangeland protection associations: she referenced "House Bill 3349," described as permitting forestry agencies to donate old equipment, and another bill she cited as providing $1 million in funding. The board did not take a position on those bills during the meeting beyond Hartzell's comment about their progress in the legislature.

Why it matters: Local rangeland protection associations rely on volunteers and modest county support to respond to wildfire events in remote areas; commissioners said the funding was available within the county's budget line for such assistance.

What happens next: County staff will process the authorized payment; Hartzell and association leaders will receive the approved funds to begin resupply.