The Iowa Department of Natural Resources is looking to assist rural fire departments in making upgrades. The DNR is currently accepting applications for 2017 Volunteer Fire Assistance Grants.

The funds from these grants will go towards the purchase of equipment used during wildfire prevention. These items include hoses, nozzles, protective equipment, and communications equipment. The grant reimburses half the cost for wildland fire equipment and will award a maximum of $3,500 per department. The grant opportunity is a result of the Iowa DNR’s forestry section’s fire program and the US Forest Service.

The application was mailed to fire departments mid June, but the application can also be accessed online at iowadnr.gov/fire. For more information, contact DNR’s Gail Kantak at gail.kantak@dnr.iowa.gov.