Matagorda County’s volunteer fire crews are getting a major boost as part of a record statewide investment in rural firefighting. The Texas A&M Forest Service is sending more than $825,000 in new equipment to four departments here. Van Vleck and Palacios will each get a $300,000 water tender. Markham will receive a $165,000 brush truck, and Midfield will get a $60,000 chassis. The upgrades will help local crews respond faster to wildfires, house fires and crashes during the busy season.