Mandan Fire Department Soon To Deploy New Rescue Boat

Bismarck-Mandan residents look forward to spending time in North Dakota lakes and rivers every summer. Sadly, as a result, accidents and other unexpected incidents occur. Because of that, our local fire departments and city officials want to make sure our safety response teams are top-notch and well-equipped with what they need to protect those who venture out on the water.

According to the Mandan e-Messenger, the Mandan Fire Department will soon enhance its emergency response capabilities. According to the source, at the May 20th City Commission meeting, Fire Chief, Mitch Bitz, presented an agreement with NDGF (North Dakota Game and Fish), for funding through the National Recreational Boat Safety Program (RBS).

The need for the new rescue boat was first addressed in 2024; the department wished to have better means to respond to water emergencies int he Mandan area. They then applied for the RBS grant and began fundraising.

(Also Read: 5 Easy Ways You Can Get Ticketed On The Missouri River)

By spring of this year (2025) the fire department raised $39,000 in donations from 11 different organizations. This exceeds the required match of $35,874.

Thanks to the RBS grant and community support, the department was able to purchase a new rescue boat. Residents should be more at ease now knowing a new, potentially life-saving watercraft will be available to emergency crews.

The source says it will be housed at Lakewood Station 2. The process of getting it purchased, delivered and paid for must be completed by September 30th, 2025.

Training is currently being developed so the Mandan Fire Department staff can operate the vehicle safely and effectively.

(Also Read: Unwritten Rules For Boating On North Dakota's Missouri River)