The statewide program that helps mitigate wildfires in urban areas is facing challenging times, when it comes to federal funding.
Wildfire Mitigation Program Coordinator, John See, tells Channel 2 that the Firewise program, which inspects residential property and helps to fund tree removal, has not received grants over the past two years, and its 2014 grant is about to run out in September. That grant was for more than $249,000.
See says there has been increased competition across the country for these smaller grants, and so its tougher to get those prevention dollars.
In order to make the 2014 funding last as long as possible, See says he has cut back on expenses such as advertising, using Americorps workers and even his own hours.
In the meantime, See wants homeowners to continue to apply online for the Firewise inspections, which also could provide the organization up to $500 for tree, and other hazard, removal.