Texas volunteer fire departments will receive another major wave of state support after the Texas A&M Forest Service approved $17.6 million in grants Thursday, marking the second phase of a historic investment authorized by the 89th Texas Legislature.

The funding — awarded through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program — includes 687 fire and rescue equipment grants and 66 dry hydrant grants statewide.

Ten fire departments in Galveston County were among the recipients, each receiving $25,000 for fire and rescue equipment. Local agencies funded include Bacliff Volunteer Fire Department, Bayou Vista Volunteer Fire Department, Dickinson Volunteer Fire Department, Friendswood Volunteer Fire Department, Kemah Fire Department, League City Fire Department, Port Bolivar Volunteer

See Full Page