The 2003 study, modeled after a survey created by the Texas Forest Service, was designed to capture the training, funding and equipment needs and capabilities of rural fire departments across the state.  

More specifically, the survey focused on issues related to wildland fire.  

The response rate for the descriptive survey exceeded expectations; nearly 44% of the original sample returned completed (or partially completed) surveys by December, 2003.

The survey responses included three (self-identified) types of fire departments: volunteer, partially volunteer/partially paid and paid.