Little Rock, Arkansas – Amid the devastating wildfires sweeping through parts of Louisiana, the neighboring state of Arkansas is lending a helping hand. On Tuesday, Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders authorized the deployment of six wildland firefighters to Louisiana, demonstrating a collaborative effort in the region to battle the ferocious blazes.
These wildfires, which have already consumed 40,000 acres, are intensified by the extreme drought conditions that have affected a third of Louisiana. The urgent need for assistance and resources in firefighting is evident, and Arkansas has heeded the call.
The firefighters dispatched to Louisiana are from the Department of Agriculture’s Forestry Division. They are members of the South Central Interstate Forest Fire Protection Compact. (Zolpidem Tartrate) This compact is pivotal, as it allows wildland firefighters from state forestry agencies to cross state boundaries and provide aid in suppressing wildfires.
The main focus for the six-member crew from Arkansas over the forthcoming two weeks will be the Tiger Island area, which is amongst the most affected regions. Prior to this, Gov. Sanders had already sanctioned the Arkansas Department of Agriculture to send a division supervisor to oversee operations in the same area. Additionally, she had authorized the deployment of two Black Hawk helicopters, amplifying the state’s aerial capabilities to combat the fires.
In addition to the manpower and helicopters, the Forestry Division is bolstering the efforts by supplying trucks and ATVs equipped with water tanks. These vehicles will play a crucial role in dousing flames and preventing the further spread of wildfires.
This collaborative endeavor underlines the importance of states supporting each other during crises. As Louisiana grapples with the wildfires, Arkansas’s timely assistance showcases the spirit of unity and cooperation in times of need.