Couderay VFDI will use new 50-by-56-foot pole shed for storage and fire suppression training and operations

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), Rural Development (RD) provided a $94,000 loan and a $160,000 grant to the Couderay Volunteer Fire Department, Inc. (CVFDI) to build a new fire building where equipment can be stored and fire suppression training and operations can be conducted. The investment is through RD’s Community Facilities (CF) Direct Loan and Grant program.

The new 50-by-56-foot facility includes three bays and a water supply for filling trucks. The building also provides heated storage for firefighting equipment that was once scattered across multiple locations.

“We wanted a simple, straight-forward design that was big enough to allow us to store everything in one place,” said Interim Assistant Chief Corey Chucka.

“Our wish list included a restroom facility and room for an office,” said Mary Slisz-Chucka, Administrative Director.

“Now we have all of our equipment in one building,” said Fire Chief Jon Snell. “This gives us more time to focus on training and recruiting new members.” 

The CVFDI serves the Towns of Couderay and Hunter. It also provides mutual aid to adjacent counties, including Sawyer County, and responds to wildfires when requested by the Department of Natural Resources.

“The support of the Couderay Volunteer Fire Department, Inc. is essential to the rural communities it serves in northwestern Wisconsin,” said USDA RD Wisconsin State Director Andrew C. Iverson. “We’re proud to partner with the CVFDI on this project, which expands resources that are critical for public safety. Ensuring the vitality of fire-fighting facilities is another example of the commitment the Trump administration has made to rural prosperity for Wisconsin.”

The new fire building, completed in October 2024, was constructed by Dave Cecil Builders, Inc. The building is a commercial post frame building with steel exterior and interior walls. There is a 6-foot heated concrete slab that is energy-efficient and consistent. The three bay doors provide quick exit for rapid response.

On Saturday, June 21, 2025, the CVFDI hosted an open house at the new facility. Attendees met with firefighters and learned about their gear and equipment. Kids and adults climbed aboard the fire engine for a ride down the street. The department staff handed out fire prevention information, paper fire trucks, coloring books, and plastic helmets for the children.

A large donor-recognition plaque displaying the names of generous supporters hangs by the door.

“We wouldn’t be where we are without all the support we received,” said Slisz-Chucka. “This fire department building will serve our community for many generations.”

More information about USDA Rural Development’s CF Direct Loan and Grant program is online, here: https://tinyurl.com/4hrfz7pt.