The Bayard Volunteer Fire Department has a new set of wheels to help them serve and care for the residents of their fire district.

Chief Brayton Bonney says that in February of 2022, the department decided they needed to update their 1996 Dodge brush truck that they used on loan from the Iowa Department of Natural Resources. He adds that they were able to receive a $13,000 grant from the Guthrie County Community Foundation, and many donations from individuals. The department also held fundraisers, and raised the money for a 2024 Chevrolet 3500 that was purchased for $68,160.32 from Karl Emergency Vehicle in Ankeny.

Bonney mentions that there have been a few setbacks along the way during the long waiting period, but that the truck is now in their fleet, and has already helped in fighting a fire. He adds that this is a fast response vehicle that is mainly used for agriculture fires like those that occur in pastures and fields. Bonney explains that being able to have reliable and safe vehicles like this one is a major benefit for the department, and that it was all thanks to the community and those that helped that made this update to their department possible.