Nicole Goldsworthy
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
SaskToday.ca
ZENON PARK — The Zenon Park and District Fire Department is strengthening its emergency response capabilities with new equipment, a leadership change and a year marked by steady service and training.
The Zenon Park and District Fire Department (ZPFD) has expanded its operational capacity following the donation of a 1997 Ford F-350 4×4 truck, while also announcing a transition in leadership.
According to the department, the truck was donated by Gilbert Ferre and will serve several key roles within the volunteer fire service. Ferre is a long time resident of Zenon Park and wanted to contribute to the department.
“We’re thrilled to announce that the Zenon Park and District Fire Department has received a 1997 F-350 4×4 truck by donation from Gilbert Ferre,” the department stated in a social media post.
The vehicle will be used to pull both the grass fire trailer and the rescue toboggan trailer and will also be outfitted with a wildland firefighting skid, enhancing the department’s ability to respond to grass fires and off-road emergencies.
The department thanked Ferre for the contribution, noting it will benefit not only the fire service, but the broader community and surrounding area.
Alongside the equipment upgrade, ZPFD also announced a change in leadership. Fire Chief Tyler Moyen stepped down from the role after years of service.
“We want to take the time to thank Tyler Moyen for his service as our fire chief and all he did for the department,” the department said.
Effective July 10, 2025, Nicolas Ferre was appointed as the new fire chief, bringing seven years of experience as a captain and three as deputy chief.
“Help us thank Tyler for his service and welcome Nicolas as chief,” the department said.
The Zenon Park and District Fire Department is a volunteer-based organization serving the Village of Zenon Park, the Rural Municipality of Connaught No. 457 and the Rural Municipality of Arborfield No. 456.
In a year-end review shared on social media, the department reported responding to seven fire-related calls in 2025, while its medical first responders (MFRs) attended 24 medical calls.
The department currently has 16 active members, allowing crews to remain response-ready while also training, maintaining equipment and completing required certifications.
ZPFD also reported having three active MFRrs, who completed additional training over the past year, including bag valve mask and naloxone use.
However, the department noted a critical equipment need. Its automated external defibrillator (AED) is no longer functional and requires replacement. The department is seeking charitable donations to fund the purchase, noting there is no financial assistance available through the Saskatchewan Health Authority. Tax receipts will be issued for donations.
The department thanked residents for their continued support as it works to maintain and improve emergency services for the region.
