History of Crooked River Ranch Rural Fire Protection District

In 1976, in cooperation with Crooked River Ranch developer W.R. (Bill) MacPherson, residents Bob Ward, Jack McMillan, Bob Arnold, and Ken Yost petitioned to establish the Crooked River Ranch Rural Fire Protection District.

The District was officially formed in 1977, with Ken Yost appointed as the first Fire Chief. Ken had retired to Crooked River Ranch after serving as Fire Chief in Portland, Oregon. Mr. MacPherson generously donated a 1940 Ford “pumper” and a 1951 Chevrolet “pumper” to the newly formed District. Additionally, a 1948 International pumper was leased from Bob Lord, who was known locally as “Crooked River Bob” through his television advertisements promoting lots on the Ranch. A 1954 Howard Cooper pumper was purchased, and the first fire hall was constructed. Ken and Iva Yost personally took out a mortgage on their home to fund the purchase of the Howard Cooper truck, with the District repaying the mortgage over time.

The original fire station was built at Hill Road and Shad Road, strategically located within five miles of any part of the Ranch. Early challenges included an unexpected issue with insulation sprayed on the bay doors, which left them stuck. It took two weeks for the insulation to dry enough to open the doors—apparently the only solution was to build a small fire inside the station!

In the early days, the District embraced inclusivity by allowing women to serve as full volunteer firefighters on the same basis as men. Local newspapers, including the Crooked River Chronicle, advertised for “Fireladdies and Fireladies,” highlighting the progressive approach of the District.

In 1978, Bill Atkinson became Fire Chief. That year, the Oregon Department of Forestry loaned a 1956 GMC tanker to the District, and the County provided a 1956 GMC 6x6 through the federal surplus program. Two-way radios were leased, and fundraising relied heavily on community Bingo events. The District’s proposed budget for 1977–78 was $16,000.

Gene Adrian was appointed Fire Chief in 1979, and both a semi-tanker and a used pumper were purchased. It was a challenging year for volunteers, and morale was low.

In 1980, Stan Irish assumed the role of Fire Chief, and a used Chief’s pickup was acquired. An addition was also made to the fire station to support growing operations.

In 1981, Spike Durfee became the District’s first full-time Fire Chief. Under his leadership, the station’s interior was remodeled to include an office, kitchen, “barn” workbench, and hose dryer. A paved area was added for equipment storage, and training programs were expanded. Later that year, the Chief’s position shifted to half-time to free additional funds for equipment. The District also purchased its first radio systems, marking significant progress in operational capabilities.

By 1983, the District had established itself as a recognized organization when the Insurance Services Office assigned Crooked River Ranch an insurance rating of 7.

Editor’s Note: We continue to expand the history of Crooked River Ranch Rural Fire Protection District through interviews with past members and Fire Chiefs. Check back for updates as we preserve and share more of our story.