The expansive landscape of north central South Dakota provides fertile ground for farmers and ranchers. Due to the dry grasslands and warm summers, the area faces an elevated risk of wildfires.

In the event of a wildfire, the 20 volunteers of the Java Fire District depend on its equipment to respond promptly and mitigate the loss of crops and farm equipment.

Katie Hammer, a Loan Specialist with Rural Development’s Community Facilities program, said, "Based on several factors, Java received 35 percent of the truck’s cost as a Community Facilities grant.”

This makes a huge impact on small, rural fire departments who may not have the same financial wealth that larger communities have available. Katie added that she’s glad Rural Development can assist volunteer fire departments.

“This makes a huge impact on these departments. It’s a vital service in very remote areas,” said Katie. “The volunteers have day jobs, and we work hard to make the application process as easy as possible. Java is just one example of what is possible when we work together to support our rural communities.”

The old brush truck no longer met safety standards and had exceeded its useful life. By leveraging multiple programs, Java Fire District secured funding using the Community Facilities Direct Loan and Grant Program to replace its 1974 International Harvester brush truck. The new brush truck with a $117,200 price tag was partially covered by a $41,000 grant, with the remaining amount financed through a $74,000 direct loan, and an applicant contribution of $2,200. Java took possession of the new truck in November 2023.

“We’re grateful for the programs through Rural Development and the support from our local residents,” Java Fire District Chief Scott Zambo said, "The community provides significant support because they understand that without this equipment, the land can quickly succumb to flames before the next nearest fire department arrives."

Responding to as many as 15 fires annually, the Java Fire District is equipped with three brush trucks and a pumper truck, enabling the department to promptly reach a fire and remain on-site to contain the flames.

"Our pumper truck can hold 3,000 gallons, and each of our brush trucks can carry between 350 and 400 gallons,” said Scott. “In situations requiring additional water, the local Elevator and nearby ranchers have been instrumental in delivering substantial amounts of water to support our firefighters in the field."

The Elevator staff and ranchers can deliver needed water at a safe distance thanks to the Department’s available equipment, and firefighters can stay to fight the fires.

Thanks to mutual aid agreements, the Java Fire District is part of a larger network of communities providing support covering roughly 1,000 square miles during larger fires.

The Java Fire District’s investment was funded through the Community Facilities Loan and Grants program. Learn more about this program and other Rural Development programs by visiting RD.USDA.Gov/SD.