The hard work of some local firefighters means a Westlock farmer has one less worry this spring.
Westlock Rural Fire Department chief Drew Beattie and his group of 20 volunteer firefighters first heard about out-of-control garbage at Nick Jonk’s farm on the south side of Highway 18 after reading an article in the May 17 Westlock News.
That’s when they decided that instead of doing their usual training night May 18, they would take the time to help the farmer collect the litter.
“We rallied and said we have to get together for practice night, anyway, With 20 people it goes by pretty quick. We’re out there to help and I guess it doesn’t matter what it is,” Beattie said, commending his volunteers.
“We shared it around our group and thought that the department might be able to help out.”
Jonk said he was appreciative of the help from the firefighters as their quick work allowed him seed his field on time.
Jonk said he has 4,000 acres near Range Road 264, and this time of year, for him and many others farming in Westlock County, time is too precious.
Among those picking up the trash was 91-year-old Joe Melzer, a longtime hunting buddy of Jonk’s, who was also eager to help his friend.
“I’m 91 but can still move around,” Melzer said with a laugh. “That surprised a lot of people.”
Melzer added that, at his age, keeping busy with chores is a big part of staying fit and active.
With a full crew it only took the firefighters a couple of hours to clean the property while Jonk kept busy with farming.
“With the potential of rain, we were busy seeding,” Jonk added.
But for the firefighters, it was just a matter of helping out someone in need.
“If we feel like we can make a difference, it doesn’t matter whether it’s the town or the county’s problem,” Beattie added.
