Curious how firefighting works in a remote part of the state where there aren’t many roads and when the infrastructure for water delivery is inadequate? Most people are familiar with aerial drops, the construction of fire breaks, and the use of flame retardant, but a new program that’s being utilized in San Miguel County meant transporting more than 200,000 gallons of water directly to the scene of areas that might be at risk.

According to the San Miguel County Sheriff’s Office, 11 new water tanks that each hold 21,000 gallons of water have been strategically placed in rural areas around San Miguel County as part of the ‘Wildfire Water Ready Project.’ Per a June 10 announcement, these tanks are now operational and ready to be used to support a firefighting effort should the need arise.

A key benefit of these tanks is that they will reduce delays related to the need to refill tanks of firefighting apparatus during emergency situations, providing more conveniently located central locations. While the tanks are described as ‘new,’ they’re actually repurposed fracking tanks, retrofitted to hold and distribute water reserves. Their presence in rural San Miguel County aims to improve response times, preparedness, fire-fighting effectiveness, and overall safety for the county’s residents.

It’s also worth noting that discussions are already underway regarding a potential expansion of the program.

“Given our drought conditions and wildfire risk, this is an important resource for our emergency responders and communities,” said San Miguel County Sheriff Dan Covault.

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