MORE INFORMATION COMING SOON

Building a Safer Future: The Journey of Our Future Fire Station

When the Row River Rural Fire Protection District (RRRFPD) was officially established in May 2024, it marked a turning point for our community. For the first time, we had an organized fire district dedicated to protecting lives, homes, and our natural surroundings. But while this was a major step forward, the district still lacked a fundamental necessity: a fire station. Without a permanent facility, our firefighters have had to store equipment in barns and sheds, significantly impacting response times and operational efficiency.

The Need for a Fire Station

The Row River region is no stranger to the dangers of fire. With an expansive Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI) and increasing wildfire risks, the need for a dedicated fire station has never been greater. Our community is home to thousands of residents and attracts over a million visitors annually to the Row River Trail and Umpqua National Forest. Additionally, the region plays a crucial role in Oregon’s water supply, providing potable water for Cottage Grove and contributing to the Willamette River watershed. A strong fire protection system is essential not only for public safety but also for preserving these invaluable resources.

Securing Funding and Community Support

Building a fire station is no small task, but thanks to the dedication of our volunteers, board members, and community supporters, we have been making steady progress. We are pursuing a combination of federal and state funding, including Congressionally Designated Spending (CDS) appropriations, grants, and community contributions. While securing these funds is challenging, we are committed to seeing this project through.

Design and Construction Plans

The new fire station will be more than just a building—it will be a vital hub for emergency response and disaster preparedness. The planned facility will include:

  • Apparatus Bays: Proper storage for firefighting equipment and emergency vehicles, ensuring quick deployment.
  • Training Area: Space for firefighter training and drills to enhance emergency response effectiveness.
  • Chief & Staff Office: Office spaces to handle the day-to-day operations and emergency operations.
  • EMT and Firefighter Equipment Storage: Store and prepare for emergency response efforts.
  • Staff Area: General staff area including ready room and locker room.

Looking Ahead

We anticipate breaking ground as soon as funding is secured and all approvals are in place. The timeline for construction depends on securing final financial commitments, but with continued support, we are hopeful that the station will be operational by 2026.

This fire station represents more than infrastructure—it symbolizes our community’s resilience, preparedness, and commitment to safety. We are deeply grateful to everyone who has contributed their time, resources, and advocacy to this effort. Your support ensures that our firefighters have the tools they need to protect our community now and in the future.

Stay tuned for updates as we continue this journey, and if you would like to support the project, please consider making a donation or reaching out to learn how you can help. Together, we are building a safer Row River Valley.

#StrongerTogether #RowRiverFire #CommunitySafety