Run/walk event returning to Bluffwoods Conservation area to benefit local fire department
BUCHANAN COUNTY, Mo. (KQTV) -- The annual run/walk race, held to raise funds for the DeKalb Fire Department, returns in June, with all proceeds benefiting those who host the event.
Starting in 2025, the DeKalb Fire Department began an annual race to engage the community and raise funds for its operations. The department, based in Buchanan County, continues its partnership with the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDOC) for this event.
During its inaugural year, the department said about 20 racers made their way through the area to assist. Being a small department, it's nice to be able to do fundraisers like this to stay up to date on equipment, gear, and other necessities without asking to raise certain taxes.
“Only, a certain percentage of the personal property taxes that people pay actually go to the fire department,” said DeKalb Volunteer Firefighter Camron Hull. “We're really based on the fact that we can only have so much money to spread out between personnel gear and fire equipment. And it's very expensive.”
However, events like these not only help the department raise funds but also support community engagement, thanks to its partnership with the MDOC. Learning from each other and helping out whenever possible is key to the partnership, according to MDOC Forester Timothy Wolfe.
“Just recently, with the Sugar Lake fire, we all worked together. So it's just been a good collaboration altogether, and I feel like it's, you know, continued efforts,” Wolfe shared. “It just brings that awareness around fire, wildfire, structural, all that stuff. “
The race takes place at Bluffwoods Conservation Area, where participants can choose between a 5k or 10k course through scenic nature trails.
Entry for the 5k is $25, and for the 10k is $35. Each participant will be timed.
Hosting departments also mentioned special completion prizes for runners who complete both their race and the local Pony Express 5k, which also takes place on the same day.
Check-in for the DeKalb Firefighter 5k/10k is at 8:30 am on Saturday, June 6, at the conservation area. Click here for more details or to sign up.
