Local fire districts upgrade equipment during busy fire season with Wildhorse Foundation grants
By Griffin Beach on Friday, August 7th, 2026 in Columbia Basin News Columbia Basin Top Stories
HERMISTON & HEPPNER – In the midst of a busy fire season, the Wildhorse Foundation has equipped local firefighters with upgraded tools.
Umatilla County Fire District No. 1 was awarded $10,000 for new firefighting turnout gear — the protective clothing that shields firefighters from heat, flames and hazardous environments.
A complete set of gear, which includes a coat, pants, helmet, boots, gloves and a hood can cost several thousand dollars, making the grant particularly valuable to the district.
“Because this equipment is routinely exposed to intense heat, smoke, contaminants, and everyday wear, it must be regularly replaced to maintain the highest level of protection,” UCFD No. 1 said in a release.
The Heppner Fire Department also received funding, accepting $28,885 for wildland firefighting equipment and supplies. The new items included hoses, nozzles, fittings, radio harnesses and goggles
Fire district officials noted that the foundation’s generosity benefits firefighters while reducing the burden on local taxpayers.
“Grants like this help maximize the value of every public dollar by supplementing limited funding with outside investment,” UCFD No. 1 stated.
Top Photo: Turnout gear from UCFD No. 1.
Bottom Photo: Equipment purchased by Heppner Fire Department
