Gov. Pillen Announces Approval of FEMA Grant to Cover Fire Fighting Costs

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Laura Strimple, (402) 580-9495

Gov. Pillen Announces Approval of FEMA Grant to Cover Fire Fighting Costs

LINCOLN, NE - Governor Jim Pillen announced the approval of a Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG) to help cover costs associated with fighting the South Fork Fire near Fort Robinson State Park. The fire has exceeded 28,000 acres and is estimated to be only 7% contained. Approximately 245 personnel have been working diligently to contain the flames and protect the nearby community of Crawford. Evacuation notices remain in effect for Fort Robinson State Park and part of Crawford.

"We can't thank our federal, state and local partners enough, especially those involved actively in firefighting efforts," said Gov. Pillen. "We appreciate also the quick response by FEMA to approve this declaration, which the state can use to cover a variety of qualified costs under the program."

The FMAG, approved by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), must be sought while the fire is actively burning. It acknowledges that the potential for destruction is so great that it would constitute a major disaster if the fire were not controlled. In addition to the community of Crawford, the fire has threatened historically significant structures at Fort Robinson State Park, wildlife, and other critical resources.

The FMAG Program provides a 75 percent federal cost share and the state pays the remaining 25 percent for actual costs incurred during firefighting efforts.

The Rocky Mountain Complex Incident Management Team (2), which has been coordinating management of the South Fork Fire, has relayed notice of a community meeting 6 p.m. (MT) tonight at the Crawford Community Center, 1005 1st Street, Crawford, NE. Representatives will update the current fire situation and will answer questions.