MIDLAND, Texas—The Permian Basin Petroleum Association (PBPA) is calling on its members and other Midland-area businesses to support the Midland Fire Department’s ongoing effort to transition away from firefighting foam containing PFAS, commonly known as “forever chemicals.” Through its “Sponsor a Fire Truck” initiative, PBPA is challenging the industry to help fund the cleaning and transition of approximately 20 Midland Fire Department fire engines that currently carry PFAS-containing Class B firefighting foam. The cost to properly dispose of the foam and clean each fire engine is estimated at approximately $25,000 per truck.
“As an industry, we have a responsibility to be proactive in addressing environmental challenges, and helping the Midland Fire Department transition away from PFAS-containing foam is a meaningful step in that direction,” said PBPA President Ben Shepperd. “This initiative is also about smart risk management. By working together now, our industry can support our first responders, protect our community and environment, and help prevent significant remediation costs down the road.”
PBPA is grateful to the companies that have already answered the call. Permian Resources, Ovintiv, Diamondback Energy, and Plains All American have each committed support to the initiative, demonstrating the kind of community partnership that can make a meaningful difference. For $25,000, a company can sponsor the transition of one Midland Fire Department fire engine. Companies may also contribute at any level, and multiple organizations can partner together to sponsor a truck.
The Midland Fire Department’s need is driven by the nationwide transition away from PFAS-containing firefighting foams. While these products have long been used to effectively combat fuel and industrial fires, growing environmental concerns have led communities and facilities across the country to pursue PFAS-free alternatives.
The Midland International Air and Space Port was among the first airports in Texas to replace its PFAS-containing foam in response to recent Federal Aviation Administration requirements. The Midland Fire Department is now working to make a similar transition across its fleet.
The importance of this effort was highlighted during a recent tank battery fire in Midland, when PFAS-containing foam was used to help extinguish the fire. While the foam can be an effective firefighting tool in an emergency, its use can create significant environmental remediation obligations and cleanup costs after an incident.
Investing in the transition today can help reduce future environmental impacts and liabilities while ensuring Midland firefighters have the equipment they need to protect the community and the Permian Basin energy industry.
“With the support of Midland International Air and Space Port, we have already completed this transition on our airport apparatus, and we are now working to secure funding to convert our remaining fire engines,” said Midland Fire Chief Michael Tully. “This is a significant investment in the health and safety of our personnel and our environment, and we are extremely grateful to the organizations and community partners who are supporting this effort.”
“The strength of Midland has always been our willingness to work together to solve challenges and invest in the future of our community,” said Midland Mayor Lori Blong. “This initiative brings our first responders and the business community together around an important goal—supporting our firefighters while reducing potential environmental impacts. I appreciate the companies that have already stepped forward and hope others will join them in supporting this important investment in Midland.”
PBPA encourages companies throughout the Permian Basin to consider sponsoring a fire engine or contributing at any level. Every contribution will help move the Midland Fire Department closer to completing this important transition.
Companies interested in participating in the “Sponsor a Fire Truck” initiative are encouraged to contact Christine Dooley at christine@pbpa.info for additional information.
Midland firefighters and Ovintiv staff hold a check for $20,000 from Ovintiv.