Garden Tractor at Brush Fires
features
Springtime in northern Maine usually means an increase in the number of grass and brush fires in the dried-out vegetation while the ground itself is still wet from melted snow. Even fourwheel-drive vehicles had trouble with the wet soil, necessitating the old method of attack on foot with pump cans and brooms. But then the time and work required was greater.
Now a deputy chief of the Presque Isle Fire Department has solved the problem for his potato-growing community. Merle Forbes, a 15-year veteran of the department, knew too well the time and work required to fight large grass fires in the agricultural community of 12,000. So he adapted his 14-hp diesel tractor—bought last year to till gardens on his off days—to grass fire fighting.
30-Gallon tank
Soon after he purchased it, Forbes was impressed with the versatility of the small four-wheel-drive Kubota tractor and began to think of a fire-related use. Known for his mechanical and welding ability, Forbes designed and built a tank-pump rig to attach to the rear of his tractor. He secured a 30-gallon drum to the rear of the tractor with metal straps and attached a capped fill pipe. He purchased a small pump which is powered by the tractor’s rear power-takeoff and draws from the drum. A small section of heavy garden hose and a nozzle complete the outfit.
The rig can be attached or removed from the tractor in about 10 to 15 minutes. The tractor and its tank are driven onto the bed of Forbes’ pickup by using a set of portable metal ramps which he also made himself. Upon notification of a grass fire, Forbes responds with his pickup, accompanied by the department’s four-wheel-drive pickup which is equipped to fight grass fires also.
The photos accompanying the story were taken at a fire involving grain stubble in a farmer’s field on a very hot and windy day with the fire moving toward a barn. After sounding a general alarm, Forbes headed toward the field on his tractor. The barn owner warned Forbes that he would get stuck on the wet ground. Fortunately, the tractor did not get stuck and the barn was saved.
One operator, two hands
Fighting fire with the tractor is relatively simple. Once in the fire area the operator of the tractor drives with one hand and directs the hose at the fire with the other. A fire fighter with a broom may follow along for cleanup. The pump provides good pressure to project an adequate stream, and the water supply will last from 10 to 20 minutes depending upon fire conditions. A quick trip back to a pumper or other water supply will quickly fill the tank.
More specific information about the rig may be obtained from the Presque Isle Fire Department.
