Buena Vista County Emergency Management has completed installation of three new dry hydrants, giving rural fire departments greater access to water during emergencies.
EMS Coordinator Aimee Barritt says the hydrants are a critical upgrade.
Barritt says dry hydrants provide reliable water access points for fire departments in rural areas, where traditional hydrants are not available.
The new hydrants are located at the Sturchler Pit Area near Newell, the Hankens Wildlife Area near Peterson, and Hayes Pit near Storm Lake.
Barritt notes the project was delayed by the historic flooding of 2024, which consumed resources across multiple agencies.
Funding came through a $3,500 grant from the Buena Vista County Community Foundation, with the county board of supervisors contributing just over $4,500. The total project cost was about $8,000.
Barritt says the collaboration among fire crews, county engineers, conservation staff, and supervisors was essential.
The new hydrants expand coverage into the southern part of the county, bringing the total number of dry hydrants countywide to eight. Barritt says that means every department now has reliable access to water when large fires break out.
Barritt says she is grateful for the support that made the project possible, and believes the hydrants will strengthen response and improve safety across Buena Vista County.
