The Butte County Board of Supervisors has voted to renew a contract with PG&E for the use of a water-dropping helicopter to enhance wildfire fighting efforts. Initially approved last year, the contract allows the helicopter to assist the county’s fire department during instances requiring additional air support.
Under the renewed agreement, PG&E will supply the helicopter, pilots, and maintenance at no expense to the county. The county’s fire department will oversee operations and dispatch. The first two hours of helicopter operation are provided free of charge, with subsequent hours costing $9,500 each.
The contract also allows for the helicopter’s use in state fire incidents, as Butte County Fire collaborates with CAL FIRE for fire protection. CAL FIRE Butte Unit Chief Garret Sjolund noted that if there is a significant need for the helicopter during an incident, it can be requested, and costs will be reimbursed by the state.
Last year, PG&E’s helicopter was deployed for 11 major wildfires in Butte County, including significant incidents like the Railbridge, Quincy, and Centerville fires. It was the first helicopter to arrive at the Thompson Fire and provided water support to the Park Fire for an extended period of 23 days.
The renewal of this contract was unanimously approved and is set to take effect in June.
