Washington D.C. – The City of Erick is receiving new federal funding to strengthen its local wildfire response capabilities.
The U.S. Department of the Interior announced more than $5 million in nationwide funding through its Slip on Tanker Pilot Program, which helps small and rural fire departments expand wildfire response using existing vehicles. Erick was awarded $39,505 as part of the program.
The grant allows the City of Erick to invest in slip on tanker units, equipment that can quickly convert standard trucks into wildland fire engines. This approach gives local departments added firefighting capacity without the cost of purchasing new apparatus.
Erick was one of five Oklahoma communities to receive funding. Other recipients in the state included Meeker, Depew, Wellston, and Boise City. Nationwide, the program awarded $5.08 million to 97 local emergency response agencies across 26 states, all serving areas identified as having moderate to high wildfire risk.
According to the Interior Department, the program is designed to help local fire departments respond faster when wildfires ignite, especially in rural areas where local crews are often the first on scene. The funding supports preparedness while helping protect lives, property, and critical infrastructure.
Interior Secretary Doug Burgum said the program gives local agencies practical tools to make better use of the equipment they already have and respond before fires threaten communities.
Enhancing wildfire preparedness is a priority of the Trump administration under Executive Order 14308, which focuses on commonsense wildfire prevention and response. The funding awarded to Erick will also improve its ability to assist with regional and interagency wildfire efforts.
A new round of Slip on Tanker Pilot Program grants is expected to open in early 2026, with application details to be posted on grants.gov.
Grant Award Summary
City of Erick, Oklahoma: $39,505.00
Boise City Fire Department: $25,078.79
Total awarded nationwide: $5,084,928.98 across 26 states
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