The Powder River Energy (PRECorp) Foundation Board of Directors has given $5,000 in direct support to the Pine Haven Volunteer Fire Department (VFD) to purchase firefighting gear.

The donation was made in conjunction with the 6th annual Carl Mirich Memorial Poker Tournament which raises funds for community improvement projects in Pine Haven.

This year the Pine Haven VFD will put the funds toward a matching grant with the state to purchase much-needed gear and oxygen tanks for local firefighters. “Over 30,000 people use Keyhole State Park and the surrounding area,” said volunteer Charlie Gulley. “Shared emergency services during times of crisis are common and the better equipped communities are, the better they can work together.” Gulley said the goal is to raise $20,000, but the Town of Pine Haven has agreed to budget any amount not raised to make sure the equipment can be purchased to protect the town and the surrounding area.

“The community of Pine Haven has many community fundraisers throughout the year to support its needs,” said Foundation Executive Director Joe Roth. “Pine Haven and the adjacent Keyhole Reservoir are major recreational areas drawing thousands of visitors each year. It is important that the local first responders have updated equipment to ensure people and property are protected.”