The 2025 Act 13 Unconventional Gas Well Fund (UGWF) Grant is now open through November 30, 2025. The UGWF grant provides funding for volunteer and career fire, emergency medical services, and rescue companies in counties where unconventional gas well drilling has been permitted and in counties that directly border permitted counties. Funds can be used toward obtaining professional national certifications; purchasing firefighting, rescue, EMS, or air monitoring equipment related to unconventional gas well pad incidents; and training classes and educational materials to prepare for incidents at an unconventional gas well pad. Visit the UGWF page for more information and a map of counties with gas wells. Questions can be directed to RA-EMACT13GRANT@pa.gov.  

Additionally, DCNR is now accepting applications for the Volunteer Fire Assistance Grants for Fighting Wildfires through December 31, 2025. Volunteer fire companies can apply for funding toward saving lives and protecting property in unprotected or inadequately protected rural areas. Eligible projects include purchase of wildfire suppression equipment; wildfire protective gear; mobile or portable radios; installation of dry hydrants; wildfire prevention and mitigation; and wildfire training. Visit DCNR’s grant portal for more information or email ra-ffp@pa.gov.