Bee County is suffering through its worst drought in recorded history. The city of Beeville still has an ample supply of fresh water for now, but we could be in trouble if area lake levels continue dropping.

This isn’t exactly a news flash for anyone remotely paying attention to the steady drumbeat of extraordinarily hot, dry days this summer.

Fire is a constant danger as we remain mired in this exceptional drought and under a countywide burn ban. However, one source of comfort for Beeville citizens is the fact that we are protected by one of the most well-trained and dedicated group of volunteer firefighters in the state.

And they are rightfully proud of their latest piece of equipment – a new, state-of-the-art, $346,000 Pierce fire truck.

Congratulations to Chief Donnie Morris and all the BVFD members, and thanks to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Rural Development Program, which helped purchase the vehicle by approving a $100,000 grant.

“We couldn’t have done this without you,” Morris told the USDA representatives gathered at Friday’s informal presentation.

The chief explained that the new truck is equipped with four “911” seats that will hold air tanks and Scott Air Packs so that firemen can get into their entry gear as they ride to the fire.

The 400-horsepower engine has 1,300 foot-pounds of torque and can get the truck traveling at its maximum speed of 72 mph in just seconds, he said.

The truck has an onboard water tank that holds 1,000 gallons and with its compressed air foam capability, it can stretch that to the equivalent of 3,000 gallons.

The BVFD was instrumental in obtaining this rescue vehicle, using $30,000 earned from its annual “chicken barbecue” fund-raising events to purchase two new Hurst Rescue Tools and having those installed. The department also arranged for a low-interest loan for the city by purchasing bonds that the city sold for $210,000 needed.

A donation of $50,000 from the Central Bee County Rural Fire District also helped the department install new equipment on the truck.

Thanks to all city officials, bond attorney and experts, and others who had any part in acquiring this vehicle.

It should pay great dividends in helping to save lives and property in this community in these desperate times.