Reflecting on 2023: Neighbors helping neighbors in River Road East Fire
During the River Road East Fire outside the towns of Paradise, and Plains, White Horse Forestry, Inc. first responded with fire suppression assistance, then later on as a means of coordinating aid and donations for fire victims. (Photo courtesy/AnnaMarie Guerra-White)
Penelope White (left) high fives Olivia White during a drop off of donations to Sanders county residents back during the River Road East Fire in August. (Photo courtesy/AnnaMarie Guerra-White)
In mid-December, it’s hard to remember that only four months ago several areas across western Montana were contending with forest fires.
One of those blazes was the River Road East Fire, which was sparked in August near Paradise. Although the flames have long been put out, you can still see the blackened landscape, scorched rocky hillsides, and matchbox ponderosa pines. Several structures and homes were lost in the fire, and although it didn’t happen in Mineral County, an army of volunteers, businesses and faithful neighbors stepped up for their friends with 35 plates.
During the early hours of the River Road East Fire one local company in particular helped to meet an onslaught of immediate needs. White Horse Forestry, Inc. is owned and operated out of Alberton by Ron White and his wife AnnaMarie Guerra-White. WHF, Inc. is very familiar with wildland fire response because they are a Wildland Fire Suppression Company. Their services include professional fallers, Type 6 fire engines and wildland fire training.
“As soon as the fire started and needs were apparent — I immediately began filling the many requests that were coming in directly to me. Big fire incidents like this one, while an emergency and responded to as such can sometimes feel as if things are not happening quickly enough for those in dire need of water, food, clothing, shelter or an understanding ear,” recalled Guerra-White. “Sometimes a reassuring hug that the fire is temporary, the emergency will pass and a big o’ bag of homemade deer jerky, new socks, and fresh towels are all someone may need.”
During the evolving situation needs frequently changed and White Horse Forestry, Inc. focused on coordinating donation efforts to meet those wishes.
She stated, “At the start of the fire bottled water was the most requested. As the shelters were set up — fresh sheets, pillows, and towels were very much in demand. Towards the end with school starting requests for backpacks, school supplies, and school clothing were being asked for.”
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