On February 2, the Department of the Interior announced that up to $20 million is available to strengthen local governments’ wildfire response capacity. The Slip-on Tanker Pilot Program (established under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law) equips small, remote emergency response agencies with practical, deployable tools that strengthen preparedness and protect lives, property and infrastructure. This funding can be used by local governments that provide emergency services to areas with a population of 50,000 or less to purchase slip-on tanker units, which allow them to quickly convert trucks, utility terrain vehicles and other vehicles to be operated as wildland fire engines. The applicants must serve communities with a moderate to high wildfire risk, as determined by the Wildfire Risk to Communities tool.
Up to $20 million is available during this third round of funding. Slip-on Tanker Pilot Program grant amounts will range from $10,000 to $249,000. Applications must be submitted through grants.gov by March 23, 2026.
For more information, contact RCRC Senior Policy Advocate, Staci Heaton.