Grants Available to Assist Local Departments Fight Wild Fires

(HARRISBURG) - - Local fire Departments have until May 20 to apply for funding to help Pennsylvania’s rural communities combat wild fires, according to Senator John R. Gordner (R-27). Senator Gordner said the state Department of Conservation and Natural Resources will be awarding grants to assist in the purchase of wild fire suppression equipment in communities with a population under 10,000.

"The goal of the program is to assist rural communities to control and suppress fires which threaten woodlands and wildlife, along with agricultural operations and livestock," said Senator Gordner. "Funding is available for the purchase of equipment that can aid rural responders in these important efforts."

DCNR’s Bureau of Forestry will award the grants following the May 20 application deadline, and the Senator encourages local departments to file an application online at www.dcnr.state.pa.us. The keywords are DCNR Volunteer Fire Assistance.

Senator Gordner said grants of up to $7,500 are available to reimburse the responders’ for 50 percent of the costs of new equipment purchased.