According to an article by Marshall Thompson, BLM Fire External Affairs Deputy Division Chief, the U.S. Department of the Interior (DOI) has allocated $1.3 million for the slip-on tanker pilot program, funded through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL).
This program equips rural firefighting units with mobile slip-on tankers to improve wildfire suppression capabilities.
These units, which can be mounted on truck chassis, allow for efficient water delivery to remote wildfire-prone areas.
The DOI aims to support wildfire mitigation efforts in underserved regions where fires are increasingly severe due to fuel accumulation.
North Tooele County, Utah, a region vulnerable to fast-moving wildfires, received $93,000 to purchase three slip-on units.
The local firefighting team of 33 personnel coordinates closely with the BLM’s Utah West Desert District for wildfire response.
This funding enables the county to enhance response capabilities and adapt equipment as necessary, improving fire suppression efforts in the area.
Baker County, Oregon, which faces frequent wildfires due to its vast grasslands and forests, has been awarded $190,806 through the program.
The funds will be used to purchase five slip-on tanker units, enhancing local firefighting efforts and supporting federal and state wildfire management collaboration.
Baker County Fire, working with the BLM and other agencies, continues to focus on public education, training, and mutual aid to bolster its wildfire response.
The DOI’s $1.3 million investment is part of a national effort under BIL to reduce wildfire risks and improve emergency response.
In addition to the slip-on tanker program, the BIL supports hazardous fuel reduction, forest management, and community preparedness initiatives.
The DOI has announced a second round of funding, providing an additional $20 million to expand the program.
The U.S. Department of the Interior has allocated $1.3 million for the slip-on tanker pilot program, funded through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.
This initiative equips rural firefighting units with mobile tankers to improve wildfire suppression in underserved areas.
North Tooele County, Utah, received $93,000 for three units, while Baker County, Oregon, was granted $190,806 for five units.
These investments enhance local firefighting capabilities and support broader national wildfire mitigation efforts.
An additional $20 million in funding has been announced to expand the program further.
