Astoria, OR – The Astoria Fire Department in Oregon has been awarded a wildfire staffing grant from the Oregon State Fire Marshal aimed at strengthening local fire response during wildfire season.
According to the department, the funding program was established in 2022 to help local fire agencies increase staffing levels during periods of elevated fire risk. Officials said the goal is to keep fires small, prevent them from spreading into communities, and reduce the need for larger, more costly emergency responses.
The grants, which can provide up to $35,000 per agency, are designed to support additional firefighters during peak wildfire season while also allowing departments to respond more effectively to other emergency calls.
Fire officials said the program has already demonstrated success in helping contain fires early before they escalate. The grant is part of a broader wildfire response strategy led by the Oregon State Fire Marshal to address increasing fire risks across the state.
Astoria Fire Department officials said the funding will help improve readiness and ensure adequate staffing during critical fire conditions.
