COLUMBUS, Ohio — May 6, 2025 — The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Forestry has awarded more than $562,000 in Volunteer Fire Assistance (VFA) grants to 90 rural fire departments across Ohio — including significant support for Fairfield and Ross Counties.
The VFA program, funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture Forest Service, helps small and rural fire departments serving populations under 10,000 purchase essential equipment like UTVs, wildfire pump units, personal protective gear (PPE), MARCS radios, and suppression tools. Each grant covers up to 50% of project costs, not to exceed $10,000 per department.
“Local fire departments play a vital role in safeguarding Ohioans and property in our communities,” said Dan Balser, Chief of ODNR’s Division of Forestry. “We’re proud to help equip them with the tools they need to prevent and fight wildfires.”
Fairfield County Awards:
- Clearcreek Township Fire Department (Stoutsville): $10,000
For an FEPP (Federal Excess Property Program) conversion project. - Basil Joint Fire District (Baltimore): $2,593
For the purchase of wildfire tools. - Greenfield Township Fire Department (Carroll): $7,077.50
To acquire a slip-in wildfire pump unit.
Ross County Awards:
- Bainbridge Volunteer Fire Department (Bainbridge): $2,825
For a slip-in unit to enhance fire response. - Harrison Township Fire Department (Chillicothe): $10,000
To purchase a UTV for wildfire response. - Franklin Township Fire and Rescue (Waverly): $9,183.91
For a slip-in unit, PPE, and essential wildfire tools.
These grants come at a crucial time, as many rural departments face tight budgets and rising operational demands. The funding not only helps maintain critical services but also strengthens Ohio’s wildfire prevention and response efforts, particularly in forested and remote regions.
