March 22 , 2006

TEXAS FOREST SERVICE MOVES OPERATION TO MIDLAND

Heavy rains in the panhandle and around Dallas have prompted the Texas Forest Service to move their incident command out of those areas and to Midland.  Airplanes and a helicopter from the Minnesota based team, most recently stationed in Childress, and are now stationed at Midland Airpark.  In addition, equipment from the western command in Granbury is moving to Midland.

The complete Texas Fire Service Command is now stationed here with more than 20 people staying in area hotels.  Many more are on the way with the team currently in Granbury.  It is unknown how long they will operate from the Midland County Exhibit Building; it could be weeks.  They arrived yesterday, March 21, 2006, and are currently setting up their operations and preparing for the addition teams.

These planes and personnel have been responsible for assisting local fire departments in their efforts fighting fires throughout Texas.  Midland is an ideal location in the heart of West Texas.  This area is currently considered a “hot spot” taking into account the dryness and high winds.  The teams can depart from Midland to emergency situations as they may arise and as fire department request their assistance.

It is unknown how long the Texas Forest Service will operate their incident command from Midland. 

Media Contact: Cynthia Sage/Texas Forest Service PIO at 325.201.7692

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