The Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Forestry Bureau, in cooperation with U.S. Forest Service – State and Private Forestry, has awarded $186,223 in 50 percent cost-share grants to 83 rural fire Iowa departments to aid their efforts in protecting Iowan’s and their property from wildfires.  In the KJAN listening area, the 2012 Volunteer Fire Assistance Grants were provided to the: Creston, Exira, Glenwood, Kirkman, Mapleton, Menlo, Oakland, Onawa, Pacific Junction, and Riverton Fire Departments.

The grants offer funding assistance for wildfire suppression equipment, personal protective equipment, and communications equipment.