The Hibbing Air Tanker Base has been utilized in combating wildfire since the late 70s. Due to the passage of time and the use of the space, updates have become necessary.
"Hibbing is one of our main air tanker and helibase locations in Minnesota," says Darren Neuman, Wildfire Aviation Supervisor in the Division of Forestry for the Minnesota DNR. Until recently, the apron (or ramp) in use was the same one that was installed in 1980. "Pavements in our Minnesota climate don't last forever and we've far exceeded the lifespan of that ramp."
In 2023, opportunities for funds arose to replace the ramp and to make other updates and adjustments to the air tanker base. Until the updates were completed, Neuman and the crew at the base were making necessary adjustment to ensure appropriate wildfire response could continue. "We had actually made some short-term fixes," says Neuman. "We actually did stop using our Hibbing base for large air tanker support due to the weight capacity and fear of creating damage."
With updates completed, operations can continue in a more typical fashion. In time of need, additional airports and airfields are used for wildfire events.
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