2024 Unconventional Gas Well Fund (UGWF) grant

The 2024 Act 13 Unconventional Gas Well Fund (UGWF) grant, announced by Pennsylvania State Fire Commissioner Thomas Cook, is now open for applications. This state-funded grant program aims to support fire departments, EMS units, and rescue companies operating in areas impacted by unconventional gas well drilling within Pennsylvania. Commissioner Cook emphasized the state’s commitment to equipping emergency services with essential training and equipment to address natural gas-related incidents, ultimately bolstering community safety. The UGWF grant program focuses on improving emergency preparedness for incidents linked to unconventional gas well operations. By providing financial assistance, the grant ensures that emergency responders are well-trained and equipped to manage emergencies specific to gas well environments. This program not only helps maintain safety at drilling sites but also in surrounding communities, offering critical support for both volunteer and career emergency service providers. Eligible applicants for the UGWF grant include fire departments, rescue companies, and EMS organizations located in the 40 Pennsylvania counties where unconventional gas wells are active, as well as in 11 counties adjacent to these areas. Funding covers expenses such as specialized training development, personnel certifications, and the purchase of essential equipment tailored to emergency response at gas well sites. The Pennsylvania State Fire Academy will also support grant recipients by providing specialized training courses and educational resources without additional costs, further enhancing readiness for gas well-related emergencies. Funding from the UGWF grant may be applied toward obtaining professional certifications for emergency personnel, which are recognized at the national level and enhance their technical capabilities in fire, rescue, and EMS operations. The grant also enables the acquisition of critical response equipment, including firefighting, rescue, EMS, and air monitoring tools, all essential for managing risks associated with unconventional gas well pads. The program underscores Pennsylvania’s targeted efforts to improve emergency response capacities in regions directly impacted by the unconventional gas industry, addressing both public safety and accident prevention. By enhancing the skills and resources of emergency responders, the grant aids in creating a rapid, well-prepared response framework that can mitigate hazards in drilling zones, protecting both workers and nearby residents. Applications are open until November 30, 2024, with a submission deadline set for 4 p.m. Interested applicants should review their eligibility status and submit applications by this date to secure funding for enhancing their readiness and operational capacity in managing gas well emergencies.