A grass fire that took out some trees near Mosier on Wednesday, July 13, set the Fire Boss scooper planes into action for the first time this fire season. The planes, stationed at the Columbia Gorge Regional Airport in Dallesport, are fitted with pontoons that can scoop water from the Columbia River and then make quick strikes on fires. The blaze near Mosier did not have a chance.

The Fire Boss and their pilots are giving firefighters a strategic advantage as the converted crop dusters can quickly respond and pummel flames through scooping water on the Columbia River. They are quickly becoming a fan favorite for government agencies looking to out blazes before they get too big.