DNR fire assistance grants awarded to Greencastle, Cloverdale

The Indiana Department of Natural Resources has awarded 73 rural and volunteer fire departments from 46 counties across Indiana encompassing more than $310,000 in Volunteer Fire Assistance grants.

In Putnam County, Greencastle Fire Department was awarded $4,250 and Cloverdale Volunteer Fire Department was awarded $5,000.

This is not the first time Greencastle has received this grant. The fire department will use its grant to purchase a slide-in for the back on one of its RTV's.

"It holds a water tank, pump and a hose wheel," explained Greencastle Fire Chief Bill Newgent. "It's used for grass, field and woods fires."

The DNR Forestry staff reviews and selects recipients based on population density, acres of public wild lands that are protected and wildlife fire reporting to the DNR Fire Control Headquarters. Grants awarded ranged from $364 to $5,000.

Grants can be used for training, installation of dry hydrants or purchasing firefighting equipment and protective gear. Local fire departments that receive grants must match the grant with cash or in-kind contributions.

Fire departments interested in applying for VFA grant opportunities should contact Crystal Hunt, program coordinator, at 317-342-4701.