73 rural and volunteer fire departments from 46 counties across Indiana have been awarded more than $310,000 in Volunteer Fire Assistance grants from the Department of Natural Resources.
The DNR Forestry staff reviews grant applications and selects recipients based on population density, acres of public wildlands protected, and wildlife fire reporting to DNR Fire Control Headquarters. Grants can be used for training, installation of dry hydrants, or purchasing necessary firefighting equipment and personal protective gear. Local fire departments that receive grants must match the grant with cash or in-kind contributions.
The Francesville Volunteer Fire Department received a $3,280 grant for wildland and the Monterey-Tippecanoe Volunteer Fire Department received $3,281 for miscellaneous needs. The LaCrosse Fire Department received a $5,000 grant for wildland and the Argos Fire Department received $5,000 for safety equipment.
