When wildfires blaze across Caddo County, Oklahoma, volunteer firefighters often find themselves far from home, working long hours without basic comforts. To help these men and women, local organizer Sammy Cooper has arranged a benefit hog hunt that will run Sept. 25‑27 in Apache.
Why the hunt matters
Cooper, a former volunteer firefighter himself, said the event is personal. “Being on a volunteer fire department before, there are all these guys out away from their family and losing their work,” he explained. With temperatures soaring and recent blazes scorching more than 3,000 acres north of Cogar, crews are facing shortages of water and other necessities.
Event details
Teams of four can enter the hunt for $300. The fee covers the day’s activities and contributes directly to the volunteer fire departments’ supply budgets. “We’re just putting it on trying to raise some money for water and snacks for the volunteer fire departments,” Cooper said.
In addition to the hunt, the weekend will feature raffles, with all proceeds also directed to the firefighters. “I hope we get a whole bunch of them ’cause the more, the better and we can raise more money for them,” Cooper added.
Recent fire activity
August saw multiple incidents near Binger, Anadarko and Gracemont, and a large grass fire burned thousands of acres north of Cogar over the weekend. High temperatures have complicated suppression efforts, making reliable water sources critical for crew safety and effectiveness.
Community response
Local residents have expressed strong support for the fundraiser, recognizing the vital role volunteer firefighters play in protecting homes and farms. The event not only provides needed funds but also offers a chance for neighbors to come together, celebrate Oklahoma’s hunting heritage, and show gratitude to those on the front lines.
How to participate
Interested hunters can register online or contact Cooper directly. The hunt will take place on private land near Apache, with safety briefings and guidance provided by experienced guides. All participants are encouraged to bring extra water and stay hydrated, reflecting the very need the fundraiser aims to address.
By combining Oklahoma’s love of the outdoors with a practical purpose, the benefit hog hunt exemplifies how local communities can rally around their first responders, ensuring they have the resources needed to keep families safe during fire season.
Original reporting: Oklahoma City News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
