Donation provides new fire suppression equipment to County Fire

Thanks to a $725,000 grant from the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians the San Bernardino County Fire Protection District (County Fire) has purchased a new bulldozer and trailer specifically designed for fire suppression, enhancing the District’s capability to combat wildfires and ensure the safety of the communities within San Bernardino County.

The fire bulldozer and trailer will play a critical role in the District’s wildland fuel mitigation efforts, infrastructure hardening, and enhanced response capacity to wildland fire incidents.

“This generous contribution from the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians is not just a donation; it’s a commitment to the safety and well-being of all residents in San Bernardino County,” stated Fire Chief Dan Munsey in a statement. “The addition of the fire bulldozer and trailer will significantly bolster our firefighting efforts, allowing us to protect our communities from the threat of wildfires. We are profoundly thankful for this partnership, which enhances our ability to serve and safeguard our county.”

This new equipment provides County Fire the ability to access and clear vegetation in challenging terrains and will enhance wildfire preparedness and response.

“Lands across the County are home to vegetation and other natural resources that provided food, medicines, tools, and building materials to our ancestors and to our Serrano culture today,” said Chairwoman Lynn Valbuena, San Manuel Band of Mission Indians. “Fuel mitigation will help to ensure that Native plants and natural resources have a healthy environment for growth while helping to protect our Inland Empire communities and cultural resources from wildfires. This equipment will aid the San Bernardino County Fire Department in their proactive and responsive efforts.”