Aplington and Grundy Center are among 105 Iowa rural fire departments receiving 2025 Volunteer Fire Assistance grants aimed at strengthening wildfire protection efforts. Nearly $350,000 in 50 percent cost-share funding was awarded statewide to help departments purchase wildfire suppression tools, personal protective gear and communications equipment.
The strong response highlights the need across rural Iowa, as 180 departments submitted requests totaling more than $565,000. Since 2021, more than 500 grants have been awarded, representing an investment of over $1.6 million in wildland fire preparedness.
In addition to Aplington and Grundy Center, departments across the state—from Anamosa to Yale—will benefit from the funding. The grants are made possible through Iowa DNR Forestry in cooperation with the U.S. Forest Service State and Private Forestry program.
Full press release here
