The North Dakota Forest Service is currently accepting applications for the Cooperative Fire Protection Assistance program for the purposes of enhancing fire protection and prevention capabilities of North Dakota’s fire departments.

Applications will be accepted from fire departments that service a population of 10,000 or less for the use of vehicle purchases, equipment, personal protective equipment, firefighter training, fire awareness and other prevention efforts. Applicants must match at least 50% of the total cost of the project from sources other than the federal government, and may be in the form of cash, services or in-kind contributions.

Project awards for firefighting gear and other personal protective equipment, tools, communication equipment up to $15,000 for a project. A department may spend more than $30,000 but the maximum award amount will not exceed $15,000 and a single item total purchase price may not exceed $10,000.

Vehicle awards may be up to $25,000 for a vehicle, but a department may spend more than $50,000 though the maximum amount awarded will not exceed $25,000.

The funds are administered by the North Dakota Forest Service in cooperation with the USDA Forest Service. Grant applications must be postmarked by March 6.