The Texas A&M Forest Service approved an additional $17.6 million in funding during the 89th Texas Legislature through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program on Dec. 5.
The first meeting on Oct. 14 for the 2026 fiscal year awarded $164 million in grants to volunteer fire stations, providing 558 fire trucks and 321 slip-units to stations statewide.
This funding is the largest amount allocated, primarily aimed at addressing the dependence of volunteer fire stations in rural areas.
“Texas fire departments are the front line of local response, and their equipment capacity is vital to response time and effectiveness,” Texas A&M Forest Service Director Al Davis said. “This historic funding reflects the strong support of the Texas Legislature and the governor. Their investment allows us to continue supporting and equipping firefighters who protect Texas’s lives and property.”
In Lamb County, the Amherst VFD received $300,000 for a water tender and $45,000 for a slipon unit; Olton VFD received $45,000 for a slip-on unit; and Springlake VFD received $165,000 for a small brush truck.
Water Tender
A water tender is a specialized fire department vehicle that serves as a mobile water supply for vast volumes of water. These vehicles are especially crucial for rural and wildland firefighting, as they provide a water supply in areas without hydrants.
Slip-on Unit A slip-on unit for fire departments is a self-contained, compact firefighting system containing a tank and pump. These can be loaded onto a truck bed, utility vehicle, or an all-terrain vehicle. These versatile and cost- effective units can transform standard vehicles into effective fire suppression tools amidst structural fires or wildland brush fires.
Small Brush Truck
A small brush truck is a specialized, off-road vehicle used to effectively fight wildfires in hard-to-access areas where larger fire engines cannot reach. These vehicles are typically built on a four-wheel-drive chassis and are equipped with a water tank, a pump, hoses and tools to put out fires and clear debris.
Passed by Texas House Bill 2601 in 2001, the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program aims to provide grants to rural volunteer fire departments for equipment and training. Over $500 million in grants have been awarded since its creation.