Local VFDs Awarded Grants

Bethesda VFD is one of six area fire departments awarded ODNR Division of Forestry grants. 

COLUMBUS, OHIO — The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Forestry has awarded more than $562,000 in grant funding to 90 fire departments across rural Ohio through the Volunteer Fire Assistance (VFA) Grant Program.

The program supports departments serving communities with fewer than 10,000 residents, providing up to 50% of eligible costs for essential wildfire and fire suppression equipment.

“Local fire departments play a vital role safeguarding Ohioans and properties within the communities they serve,” said Dan Balser, ODNR Division of Forestry Chief. “We’re proud to help equip them with the resources needed to protect both people and property from wildfires.”

Funds, provided by the USDA Forest Service, will help departments purchase slip-in pump units, UTVs, personal protective equipment (PPE), tools, MARCS radios, and more.

Area grant recipients are:

Belmont County

• Barnesville Fire Department – $4,250.00 (slip-in unit)
• Bethesda FD – $3,732.00 (wildfire tools)
• Belmont VFD – $1,395.96 (wildfire tools)
• Flushing VFD – $1,188.44 (PPE, hose/reel)

Guernsey County

• Quaker City VFD – $9,435.00 (PPE, training equipment)

Monroe County

• Beallsville VFD – $4,124.56 (wildfire tools, fittings)

ODNR says these grants help rural departments overcome budget constraints and stay prepared to protect their communities from fire-related emergencies.