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Mist-Birkenfeld RFPD History
"When looking back it becomes clear to me that much, if not most, of the moves forward the district has taken have been made possible by the vision, hard work and sacrifice of people who sacrificed their time and their talents without expectation of any compensation save the satisfaction of a job well done."
- Chief Dave Crawford
Mist-Birkenfeld RFPD Fire Chief 1986-2013
1956
Formation of the Birkenfeld-Mist RFPD and Initial Board Election
A special election was held to establish the Birkenfeld-Mist RFPD, and five board members were elected. However, the district's activities stalled until 1978.
1977
Establishment of the Mist-Birkenfeld Quick Response Unit
The Mist-Birkenfeld Quick Response Unit was formed with a used ambulance, laying the groundwork for the eventual revival of the fire district.
1978
Reactivation Efforts Begin for Mist-Birkenfeld RFPD
Norman Mueller and a reorganization committee began efforts to reactivate the fire district, finding that $3,253 in funds from the district’s founding were still available.
1979
Official Reactivation of Mist-Birkenfeld RFPD and Appointment of New Board
The Mist-Birkenfeld RFPD was officially reactivated with a new board and Norman Mueller was appointed as acting Fire Chief. The district received its first fire engine, a 1942 Ford Class B pumper, marking the beginning of its fire suppression capabilities.
1980
Completion of the First Fire Station and Equipment Acquisition
A new fire station was completed, and the district had four emergency vehicles, including a 1956 American LaFrance engine purchased with a grant.
1981
Industrial Expansion and Leadership Changes
Chief Norman Mueller resigned, and Terry Bair took over, leading extensive training programs and accepting surplus apparatus from the Civil Defense.
1983
Funding and Equipment Expansion through Gas Tax Impaction Funds
The district received new equipment and apparatus funded by taxes from commercial natural gas production, greatly improving fire and emergency medical services.
1984
Annexation of New Areas into Mist-Birkenfeld RFPD
Chief Terry Bair resigned, and Randall Hansen became Fire Chief, focusing on developing leadership and introducing new standard operating procedures.
1986
Chief Hansen’s Resignation and Deputy Chief Crawford’s Appointment
Chief Hansen resigned, and Deputy Chief Dave Crawford was appointed Fire Chief. Crawford emphasized training and professionalization within the district.
1989
Transition to a Full-Time Paid Fire Chief Position
Dave Crawford was hired as the district’s first full-time Fire Chief, supported by a seven-year endowment from Northwest Natural Gas.
1990
Growth and Technological Advancements within the Fire District
The district purchased a 1980 Dodge pickup and a Class A Foam System, marking a significant advancement in firefighting technology.
1996-2000
Growth and Technological Advancements within the Fire District
The district purchased a 1980 Dodge pickup and a Class A Foam System, marking a significant advancement in firefighting technology.
2001-2010
Decade of Disaster Response and Resource Expansion
Between 2000 and 2010, the Fire District responded to multiple disasters, exemplifying “Service Beyond the Call.” Secured grants and financing enabled the addition of new apparatus, SCBAs, and a new building.
2011-2020
Decade of Growth and Leadership Transition
Fleming Pond was completed in 2013, and Chief Crawford passed leadership to Chief Kazenski. New roles like Deputy Chief and Division Chiefs for EMS and Training were created, and the first in-house EMR class was held.
2021
Expanding Community Health Support Through CHIPP and COVID-19 Clinics
Community Health Integrated Paramedicine Program (CHIPP) was created to support members with health needs like bandage changes, blood pressure checks, and assistance finding health services. COVID-19 vaccine clinics began in March, funded by a FEMA grant.
2022
Fishhawk Loop Fire and Firefighter I Academy Launch
In October, the Fishhawk Loop Fire ignited near Fishhawk Lake, with ODF and MBRFPD containing the blaze over six days. The Fire District also held its first in-house Firefighter I academy.
2023
Successful Grant Acquisitions for Enhanced Firefighting Resources
The Fire District applied for several grants, many of which were successful, including a Type VI Brush Rig, a $35,000 grant for wildland firefighting, and a $214,438.09 AFG grant for new SCBAs for our firefighters.
2024
Growth and Technological Advancements within the Fire District
Past Chief's Nornman Meuller and David Crawford pass away.
