LCRA awards $25,000 grant to Muldoon VFD for new brush truck, rescue equipment
New truck will provide more water, lifesaving equipment for firefighters working to protect Muldoon, nearby communities
Nov. 19, 2025
FAYETTE COUNTY, Texas – The Muldoon Volunteer Fire Department soon will purchase a new brush truck and rescue equipment to enhance its ability to fight wildfires and protect people and property, thanks to a $25,000 grant from the Lower Colorado River Authority.
The community grant, along with more than $406,000 in matching funds from Muldoon VFD and Texas A&M Forest Service, will improve the department’s ability to respond to wildfires, traffic accidents and rescues in rural parts of Fayette County.
The new brush truck offers improved off-road capability, increased water and equipment storage and advanced pumping systems that will help firefighters suppress fires more safely and efficiently. The truck also can be operated with fewer personnel than other trucks, making it ideal for the department’s volunteer staff.
The grant also will help purchase new rescue lift bags that enable firefighters to safely lift 15,000- 20,000 pounds of vehicles, farm equipment or machinery during critical rescue situations.
“Our current fleet includes outdated and unreliable trucks that make it challenging to respond quickly and safely, especially in remote or rugged areas of our community,” said Fire Chief Stephen Kelly. “This new brush truck and equipment will give our volunteers the tools they need to act faster, fight fires more effectively and perform rescues with greater safety and confidence. Securing this grant is a significant advancement for Muldoon VFD and the people we serve.”
In addition to the equipment upgrades, the VFD will be able to continue its ongoing development opportunities for its volunteer firefighters.
“This funding allows us to upgrade critical equipment and also strengthens the skills and readiness of our volunteer firefighters,” Kelly said. “With modern tools and hands-on training opportunities, we can provide faster, more efficient emergency response, ultimately protecting lives, property and the environment across Muldoon and the surrounding areas.”
The Muldoon VFD serves almost 140 square miles of rural territory, including the communities of Muldoon, Cistern, West Point and the surrounding region. The department also provides mutual aid to the neighboring communities of Flatonia, La Grange, Smithville and Waelder.
This is one of 41 grants awarded recently through LCRA Community Grants. These grants are awarded twice a year as part of LCRA’s effort to give back to communities in its wholesale electric, water and transmission service areas.
Applications for the next round of grants will be accepted in January. More information is available at lcra.org/cdpp.
About LCRA
The Lower Colorado River Authority serves customers and communities throughout Texas by managing the lower Colorado River; generating and transmitting electric power; providing a clean, reliable water supply; and offering outdoor adventures at more than 40 parks along the Colorado River from the Texas Hill Country to the Gulf Coast. LCRA and its employees are committed to fulfilling our mission to enhance the quality of life of the Texans we serve through water stewardship, energy and community service. LCRA was created by the Texas Legislature in 1934 and receives no state appropriations.
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