Union Power Cooperative, based in Monroe, NC, recently worked with Ridgecrest Volunteer Fire Department (RVFD) in Stanly County to secure funds for the purchase of a new pumper tanker. The funds were obtained as part of the ongoing “revolving loan” program with the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Economic Development Loan and Grant program (REDLG), which provides zero‑interest loans and grants to local electric cooperatives.

“We needed to replace an aging 1990 tanker that was requiring a great deal of maintenance,” RVFD Board Chairman Curtis Furr said. “The new 3,000-gallon capacity tanker allows Ridgecrest VFD to better respond to community needs,” Furr added. “Over the past two years, the RVFD has responded to over 600 calls related to fire, medical and rescue emergencies, and we anticipate that call volume to increase as we grow in this area.” 

Ridgecrest VFD serves the unincorporated areas of western Stanly County, including approximately 2,500 single family dwellings.