July 15, 2013 - Albany, NY - Applications are now being accepted for federally-funded "Volunteer Fire Assistance" grants, New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Commissioner Joe Martens announced today. The grants help rural fire departments enhance their wildfire fighting capabilities. The deadline for application is July 25.

"Fire departments in rural areas work diligently in their fire protection efforts, serving thousands of New Yorkers," Commissioner Martens said. "Rural fire departments pool resources with state Forest Rangers to fight wildfires that threaten local communities and natural resources. This grant program helps these communities prepare for the challenge of fighting wildfires."

The Volunteer Fire Assistance grant program is funded by the U.S. Forest Service and administered by DEC. If awarded, fire departments will receive 50/50 matching funds up to the amount of $1,000. Last year, the program allocated $380,000, which provided an average of $1,000 grants to 386 fire departments. It is anticipated $360,000 will be allocated for 2013.

Only expenses directly related to fire suppression efforts are eligible for funding. These include the purchase of portable pumps, portable backpack pumps, hand tools, hoses, light-weight fireproof clothing (Nomex), hard hats, turnout gear, portable radios, generators and dry hydrants. Expenditures not directly related to firefighting, such as search and rescue, acquisition of land, construction of buildings and facilities, major apparatus purchases and maintenance items are not eligible for funding.

Eligible fire companies include those that serve a single town with a population under 10,000; those that serve multiple communities, one of which is a rural town of less than 10,000 residents; and fire companies in towns with a population of 10,000 or more that meet the requirements listed on the application. All funded projects should be completed by October 31, 2013.

For applications or further information about the Volunteer Fire Assistance Grants program, contact DEC at (518) 402-8839, or write to NYSDEC, Division of Forest Protection, 625 Broadway 3rd Floor, Albany, NY, 12233-2560 or, visit the DEC website