LOXLEY, Alabama — Emergencies don’t always take place in the most accessible locations. Whether on an interstate or on the farm, they all require the attention of emergency responders.

The Loxley Volunteer Fire Department has found a solution to this problem in the use of rugged-terrain vehicles (RTVs.) They will now be able to purchase a new RTV 900 Brush Unit, thanks to the Loxley Monsanto site that nominated the fire department to receive a $14,500 grant.

 “The RTV we will be purchasing is a small vehicle with a water tank on the back,” said Capt. Raymond Lovell of the Loxley Volunteer Fire Department. “It will allow firefighters to respond to emergencies in hard-to-reach areas that larger trucks can’t easily access.”

Aaron Kirkland, of the Loxley Monsanto site, was also excited to play a part in the donation. Kirkland has served on the town’s Zoning and Planning Commission for the past two years.

 “It means a great deal to me that I am able to present this grant to the Loxley Volunteer Fire Department,” Kirkland said. “These men and women voluntarily put their lives on the line to protect our community. If Monsanto can help them do this more safely and effectively through this grant, then I feel we have made a difference in the community.”

The Loxley Volunteer Fire Department was presented a $14,500 grant from the Monsanto Fund, the philanthropic arm of the Monsanto Co., at a presentation at the Loxley Fire House on July 10. “This grant will allow our department to purchase equipment that has been needed for some time now,” Lovell said.

 “It will benefit our community tremendously, and we are very thankful.”