The Powder River Energy (PRECorp) Foundation Board of Directors has given $8,000 in direct support to the Hulett Volunteer Fire Department (VFD) to complete an emergency replacement of a brush truck water pump.

The department and its 8 volunteers respond to fire and traffic emergencies in Hulett and the surrounding Bear Lodge area. The crew has ordered a new pump for Brush Truck #7 to ensure it will be operational for the 2025 fire season.

“We appreciate the Foundation in keeping our equipment functioning and in good repair so that our fire response may continue in a timely manner,” said department Secretary-Treasurer Bernice ‘Bunny Mae’ Engberg.

“The Foundation Board remarked that this donation is vital for the residents and visitors to this area of northeast Wyoming, so they have all of the fire and emergency services available to them when needed,” said Foundation Executive Director Joe Roth. “The wildfire season of 2024 is a prime example of how an emergency can quickly erupt, and how the local volunteer fire department needs to match that with all of its essential equipment ready to respond.”

In 2024, the Hulett VFD responded to 15 wildfires; 5 car accidents; and 1 structure fire. The volunteers, who range in age from 28-62, also do chimney cleaning as a safety service.