LITTLE ROCK, AR – Governor Sanders has authorized a crew of 10 wildland firefighters from the Arkansas Department of Agriculture’s Forestry Division to assist the State of Mississippi with their ongoing wildfire suppression efforts. Since August 1, the Mississippi Forestry Commission has responded to over 760 fires that have burned over 14,163 acres.
Due to extended drought in Mississippi, Forestry Division employees have been mobilized as part of the South Central Interstate Forest Fire Protection Compact. The compact enables participating state forestry agencies to send resources and personnel across state lines to suppress wildfires.
The 10-person crew will be in Mississippi for a two-week period beginning October 10. The primary role of the crew will be to respond to and suppress new fires in Southern Mississippi. The Forestry Division will also send five dozers to assist in the wildfire response efforts.
Governor Sanders previously authorized the Forestry Division to send wildland firefighter crews to the Tiger Island Fire in Louisiana from September 8 to 23 and the Wallowa-Whitman National Forest in Oregon from August 7 to 27.
The Arkansas Department of Agriculture is dedicated to the development and implementation of policies and programs for Arkansas agriculture, forestry, and natural resources to keep its farmers and ranchers competitive in national and international markets while conserving natural resources and ensuring safe food, fiber, and forest products for the citizens of the state and nation. Visit agriculture.arkansas.gov/. The Arkansas Department of Agriculture offers its programs to all eligible persons regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, age, or disability and is an Equal Opportunity Employer.