Printer-friendlyEnvironment DEC
From the May 2008 issue
DEC Accepting Applications for Volunteer Fire Assistance Grants
The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) is accepting applications for Volunteer Fire Assistance grants, which provide funding to rural fire departments to enhance their wildfire fighting capabilities. The grant program is funded by the U.S. Forest Service and administered by DEC. Last year, the program allocated $365,000, providing $1,000 grants to 365 fire departments. A comparable level of federal funding is expected for 2008.
Fire departments in towns with populations of 10,000 or more may be eligible if they meet the requirements listed on the application. Fire departments must provide half the cost of the project being funded. All funded projects should be completed by October 30, 2008.
Grant money can be used for equipment and clothing directly related to fire suppression
Priority will be given to applications from fire departments in towns that have a high rating from the Insurance Services Office and that serve inadequately protected rural communities. Preference also will be given to fire departments that have not received funding in the past five years under the Volunteer Fire Assistance/Rural Community Fire Protection Program.
Eligible Expenses
Only expenses directly related to fire suppression are eligible for funding. These include the purchase of portable pumps, portable backpack pumps, hand tools, hoses, lightweight fireproof clothing (Nomex), hard hats, turnout gear, portable radios, generators and dry hydrants. Expenditures not directly related to firefighting, such as acquisition of land, construction of buildings and facilities, major apparatus purchases and maintenance items are not eligible for funding.
Applications
The deadline for applications is May 15, 2008. For applications or further information about the grant program, contact DEC at 518-402-8839, or write to: NYSDEC, Division of Forest Protection and Fire Management, 625 Broadway, 8th Floor, Albany, New York, 12233-2560.
