Garden Valley Fire Protection District - Idaho

09/02/2026

08/30/2026

Garden Valley Fire Department Responds to Overnight Rope Rescue

The Garden Valley Fire Department was called out Wednesday night shortly after 10:00 PM for a possible rope rescue involving an individual who had fallen approximately 150 feet into a ravine.

Duty Officer Lieutenant Lawley, Chief Cleaveland, and Firefighter Price were the first to arrive on scene and assess the situation. After evaluating the conditions, additional resources and specialized equipment were determined to be necessary.

Lieutenant Crane and Firefighter/EMT Daigneau were requested to respond with Rescue 3, the department’s primary over-the-edge rescue unit. Rescue 3 is equipped with the specialized ropes, basket, and technical rescue equipment necessary to perform rescues in steep and difficult terrain.

Once the rescue system was established, the recovery team sent the first rescuer down into the ravine to assess the patient. It was determined that the individual was unable to make their way back up the steep terrain, even with assistance. A second rescuer was then deployed to assist with patient care and the rescue operation.

Through outstanding teamwork, rope management, and technical rescue skills, the rescuers were able to safely bring the individual out of the ravine and up to the waiting units for further evaluation.

This was a challenging rescue—not only because of the steep terrain, but because it was conducted in the middle of the night. The operation was timely and, most importantly, successful.

Your Garden Valley Fire Department continues to train for these types of emergencies so that when the call comes, our volunteers are prepared to respond.

A special thank you to everyone who responded and worked together to bring this individual safely out of a difficult situation. This is what teamwork, training, and commitment to our community look like.

08/13/2026

The day started at midnight when our on-call crew responded to a medical call. After returning home, that same team was called to Highway 55 near Mile Marker 80 for a wildland fire. What followed was the next 17 hours of hard work and dedication by Chief Paul Cleaveland, Lieutenant Dillon Lawley, Firefighter Scott Price, and myself (Phil Daigneau)

But the team didn’t stop there. Lieutenant Jenna Crane responded with a much-needed water tender to support the operation.

During the day, another medical call required additional resources, bringing Captain Austin Field and EMT Donnie Adams out to respond and ultimately transporting a patient to Boise.

The day also showed what makes Garden Valley and Boise County special.

Fire Commissioners Mike Van Dyk and Mike Dolan made sure crews had much-needed food and water throughout the day.

When resources were needed to clear roads, Boise County Road Department Supervisor Jeremy Braughton showed up with the county loader and went to work.

When traffic control was needed, County resources responded under the leadership of Sheriff Scott Turner.

Boise County Emergency Preparedness, represented by Jordon Jones, also brought additional resources and assisted with traffic control.

And when our exhausted crew finally returned to the station, we were greeted by a feast fit for a king, compliments of the Garden Valley Fire Department Auxiliary. Their continued support of our firefighters and EMTs means more than they probably realize, and we are incredibly thankful for everything they do.

The fire may not be completely out yet, but today highlighted something much bigger: the strength, dedication, and willingness to serve that exists throughout Garden Valley and Boise County.

I am proud to serve alongside each and every one of these individuals. This is what community looks like. This is what neighbors helping neighbors looks like. And this is why I am proud to call Garden Valley home.

08/12/2026

08/12/2026

The Mile Marker 81 Fire is burning near the intersection of Highways 55 and 17, approximately 1 ½ miles northeast of Banks, Idaho. The fire was first reported about 3:00am and has grown to about 100 acres.

Garden Valley crews have been on the fire since about 3:00 AM.

This fire is highly visible and impacting both highways. No evacuations have been put in place at this time. Boise County Sheriff’s Office will issue any evacuation notices if needed.

There will be a high amount of firefighter vehicle traffic on these highways and side roads. Use caution when travelling in the area for your safety and that of the firefighters on scene.

08/05/2026

Notice of Stage 1 Fire Restrictions

08/04/2026

Have you ever wanted to make a real difference in your community? Now is your chance.

Garden Valley Fire Protection District is looking for motivated men and women who want to serve their neighbors when they need it most. No prior experience is required, we'll provide the training you need to become part of our team.

As a volunteer, you'll gain valuable skills in:
- Firefighting
- Emergency Medical Services (EMS)
- Vehicle Extrication
- Wildland Firefighting
- Rescue Operations
- Emergency Communications

Whether you're looking to challenge yourself, learn new skills, give back to your community, or even start a career in the fire service, there's a place for you at Garden Valley Fire.

What we're looking for:
✅ 18 years or older
✅ Positive attitude and willingness to learn
✅ Commitment to serving your community
✅ Ability to work as part of a team

Being a volunteer firefighter is one of the most rewarding experiences you'll ever have. You'll build lifelong friendships, develop skills that last a lifetime, and make a meaningful impact on the lives of those around you.