Florida Sending Crews To Battle Wildfire In Texas

October 19, 2015

Florida Commissioner of Agriculture Adam H. Putnam announced recently that the Florida Forest Service, a division of the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, is sending 16 wildland firefighters to assist wildfire suppression efforts on the Hidden Pines Fire in Bastrop County, Texas. The fire has burned more than 4,300 acres, destroying nine homes and threatening hundreds more.

“Florida Forest Service wildland firefighters are an elite group of selfless public servants committed to the protection of life, property and natural resources. This commitment extends beyond Florida’s borders as we work to provide support to our partners across the country,” said Putnam.

So far this year, the Florida Forest Service has sent nearly 550 firefighters and personnel to assist wildfire suppression and management efforts in 11 other states.

“Thanks to sustained low to moderate wildfire danger levels in Florida, we have been able to continue to assist our partners in other states,” said Jim Karels, Florida State Forester. “In doing so, our wildland firefighters build upon their skills and expertise in preparation for when Florida’s wildfire activity hits its peak in the spring.”

Photo courtesy Florida Forest Service for NorthEscambia.com, click to enlarge.

Comments

One Response to “Florida Sending Crews To Battle Wildfire In Texas”

  1. gatorbait on October 22nd, 2015 9:25 pm

    It is a disgrace that Gov Scott vetoed these courageous Firefighters pay raise and State Correctional Officers have not had a raise in nine years.
    But Gov Scott approves 2 million dollars of tax payer money for a sea wall
    on a golf course in south Florida. Even worse Gov Scott can spend 1.3 million dollars of tax payer money to settle lawsuits against him for violating Florida Sunshine Laws for open government. Shame ,Shame Shame.

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