Slip-on Tanker Pilot Program

The U.S. Wildland Fire Service helps to expand the firefighting capacity of our local partners.

Firefighters walk alongside a vehicle driving away from the camera through dry shrubland. Small flames dot the landscape, and thick gray smoke obscures the landscape to the left of the firefighters. The firefighters use hoses attached to the vehicle to spray water onto the flames.

The Slip-on Tanker Pilot Program strengthens wildfire response by helping small, remote emergency response agencies expand their wildland firefighting fleet as they continue to face the devastating impacts of intensifying wildfires.

At a Glance

Funding Type: Grants

Award Amount: $10,000 to $500,000

Eligibility: Local governments serving a population of 50,000 or less

Status: Application window closed March 14, 2025 (check back soon for award announcements and the next application window)

How Can Funds Be Used?

The program can be used by local governments to purchase slip-on tanks, which can quickly convert trucks and other vehicles to be operated as wildland fire engines.

Who Can Apply?

Local governments that serve communities with a moderate or high wildfire risk and provide emergency services to areas with a population of 50,000 or less are eligible.

How Much is Available?

Each applicant can apply for grants ranging from $10,000 to $500,000.

The pilot program, which began in 2024, is authorized to award a total of $50 million in grants.

How to Get Started?

Look for the next application window to be announced on grants.gov and follow the application instructions in that announcement.

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