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US Forest Service Northern Region (R1) is requesting a highly effective and efficient mobile field decontamination system to prevent the spread of Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) by firefighting equipment. This mobile system will fully submerge firefighting equipment in hot water to expose all surfaces to hot water to fully decontaminate equipment

Specific Concern

Wildfire suppression operations have the potential to spread AIS. Drafting equipment is used at multiple water bodies within a fire complex and may be used on incidents throughout the country; therefore, AIS may be spread from drafting site to drafting site within states or even across state borders.

The National Wildfire Coordinating Group (NWCG) and Northern Rockies Coordinating Group (NRCG) protocol recommend using hot water to decontaminate ground-based wildfire drafting equipment.

The USFS R1 Hotwater Decon unit would:

• Decreased wait time will increase compliance with AIS best management practices and standards.


• Use less water than current designs.


• Reduce safety incidents as the self-contained unit reduces exposure to hot water.


• Minimize site damage because the water is recirculated rather than disposed on the ground.


• Reduces the use of chemical disinfectants and the time and costs associated with PPE, permits and legal disposal.

Hot water dip tank unit specifications

The unit accommodates at least five 10-foot drafting hoses (5-inch diameter) with foot valve simultaneously. One long shallow tank or separate round tanks for coiled hoses. Draft hoses need to be completely submerged when placed in the decontamination tank with no need for manipulation once they are in the tank. Water temperature in tank(s) must be maintained continuously at a minimum of 125 degrees for five minutes to kill quagga and zebra mussels but, for safety, not higher than 140 degrees. System must be mobile, self-contained, and recirculating with a filter System must maintain constant elevation/volume in decontamination tank. System must be designed to run long hours with minimal maintenance. System should be designed to be operated safely with minimal training and ergonomics should be a consideration. Trailer mounted toolbox of appropriate size and shape to carry necessary maintenance tools including tire change ramp and a mounted spare tire. Develop written protocol for operating the machine and decontaminating hoses such that all surfaces of drafting hose and foot valve are in contact with hot water for the specified amount of time.