State of Montana Newsroom
Governor Gianforte Secures Support from FEMA to Fight Robertson Draw Fire
HELENA, Mont. – Governor Greg Gianforte today announced the state has secured Federal Management Assistance Grants (FMAG) from FEMA to assist with costs associated with fighting the Robertson Draw Fire in Carbon County.
“On behalf of a grateful state, I’d like to thank our first responders who have bravely stepped up to contain the wildfires burning in Montana,” said Governor Gianforte. “As they continue to work around the clock to keep Montanans and their property safe, we ask that folks take seriously warnings and evacuation orders from local officials and follow all necessary precautions.”
Yesterday, Montana’s Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC) submitted the request for firefighting assistance and the request was approved yesterday evening by FEMA.
The FMAG makes FEMA funding available to pay 75 percent of the state’s eligible firefighting costs. Eligible costs include materials and supplies, mobilization and demobilization, equipment use, and expenses for field camps.
Additionally, each FMAG generates over $550,000 in federal mitigation funding.
The Robertson Draw Fire, which started on June 13 th, has burned over 20,000 acres, and threatened the communities of Red Lodge, Belfry, and surrounding areas.
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