The state Department of Conservation and Natural Resources is accepting applications to help Pennsylvania’s rural communities increase protection from wildfires. Funded through federal grants, this money helps fire companies in rural areas or communities with fewer than 10,000 residents with training and equipment purchases directly related to fighting forest and brush fires. Recipients are selected based on vulnerability and adequacy of existing fire protection. Grant applications must be submitted electronically and are due May 11.     

Priority is placed on projects that include wildfire suppression equipment and protective clothing. Grants may also be used for purchasing mobile or portable radios, installing dry hydrants, wildfire prevention and mitigation work, training wildfire fighters, or converting and maintaining federal excess vehicles. Grants are on a cost-share basis and cannot exceed 50% of actual expenditures. The maximum grant is $12,500. Click here for more information.