Exceptional Item Request
FY 2024-2025
Objective
Invest in volunteer fire departments.
Support the Texas Intrastate Fire Mutual Aid System.
Background
A duty to protect is included in the mission of Texas A&M Forest Service, and fire departments across the state are an essential partner in realizing that mission. The agency has a long history of supporting fire departments and is committed to helping enhance their emergency response capabilities.
Increasing local firefighting capacity
The requested funding will allow Texas A&M Forest Service to provide 30 additional apparatus to departments each year, an increase of 50% from current funding allocations, as well as more life-saving rescue equipment, gear and training.
Volunteer Fire Departments, (VFDs)
Volunteer fire departments provide essential front-line emergency services that directly protect Texans and the state’s natural resources every day. Grant requests exceed current funding by $16.7M each year, and it is imperative that the agency continue to invest in local fire departments to ensure they are well-equipped and trained
for response.
Texas Intrastate Fire Mutual Aid System (TIFMAS)
The premiere mutual aid system in the nation, the TIFMAS program provides surge capacity at the request of the state to support catastrophic incidents. Continued investment will sustain and improve response capabilities to expand the state response to wildfires and all-hazard incidents.
Al Davis, Interim Director, Texas A&M Forest Service
Contact
Lauren Murphy | Executive Assistant
Office of the Director
Texas A&M Forest Service
lmurphy@tfs.tamu.edu
