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On November 15, 1999 a survey was conducted to evaluate the feasibility of converting from threaded hose fittings to quarter turn quick connect. A total of 225 responses were received from federal, state, and rural wildland fire organizations. The majority of those responding indicated they would support conversion to quarter turn quick connect if the federal agencies decided to proceed in that direction. Of those that did not support conversion the primary reason was cost related and secondarily the concern was cooperator compatibility. The NFES committee performed cost analysis based on current system wide inventory and average GSA sales of specific water handling equipment that would be converted. Cost projections were made based on current and anticipated cost of new components and adapters. The estimated total cost of conversion would be 2.46 million dollars. This would be partially offset by the saving of $128,821 per year from twelve fittings that become obsolete. The Fire Equipment Working Team approved the proposal to convert based on increased efficiency and performance, reduction in hardware, and overall superiority. The proposal was accepted by the National Wildfire Coordinating Group at their last meeting in October 2000, in Luray, Virginia. An interagency group is currently working on an implementation plan that will be submitted to the NWCG for approval at their next meeting. Implementation and transition is being planned on a 3 to 5 year schedule. Information regarding the survey, analysis, and implementation plan will soon be posted on the NWCG web site. /s/ Kim Christensen, Chair
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