located within the boundary of the
"Utopia-Vanderpool-ESD"

This Vanderpool, Texas based Department/Service Provider
covers portions of Bandera and Real counties.
Approximately one-third of the ESD.

The department has been saving money from donations and fund raising for several years to expand the capabilities for better service to the community.  We began using those funds this year by expanding the fire station to make room for a new Tanker/Tinder.
 

Phase I - Expanding the current building

We are adding three bays onto the North end of the existing building with electric doors and an outside covered storage area on the South end of the existing building.  The project began in the spring with dirt work on the project. After allowing the fill to settle and stabilize, the two slabs were added in the summer. One 20' x 11' slab on the South and one 20' x 40' slab on the North.

In October the iron work framing began on the structure, followed by the insulation and outside metal in November.  Doors were installed in December.  We are now in the process of wiring, lighting, etc. to get the building completed in December.
 

 South End Covered Storage

PHASE II  - New Tanker/Tinder

We are applying for a Texas Forest Service purchase assistance grant, to go with the remainder of our funds.  We are in need of a tanker/tinder to provide a source of water during the extreme droughts we are having.  The tanker/tinder will also provide a extended water resource when responding to wild-land fires in our more remote coverage area.
 

Here are some photos of the requested Tanker/Tinder:                              (click on any photo to enlarge)