Oklahoma Governor Henry Announces FEMA Assistance Approved for Taloga Wildfire

March 06, 2009 -- Oklahoma City — Oklahoma Governor Brad Henry said today he is extremely pleased that the Federal Emergency Management Agency has authorized the use of federal funds to fight the Taloga fire.

“Firefighters and other first-responders have done an incredible job battling the Taloga wildfire, and I am thankful that FEMA moved swiftly to provide federal assistance for their efforts,” Gov. Henry said. “Nearly the entire town of Taloga was evacuated at the height of the fire. This aid will go a long way toward helping the agencies involved in battling the blaze.”

Article continues below...

The Governor said state emergency management officials are monitoring conditions throughout Oklahoma that have the potential for the spread of significant wildfires.

The state Department of Emergency Management requested the fire management assistance declaration on Thursday. At that time, the fire was threatening more than 370 in the Dewey County community. Voluntary evacuations were issued for more than 200 people. The blaze, which began Thursday, had burned more than 20,000 acres of public and private land.

Under the authorization, FEMA funding is available to pay 75 percent of state, local and tribal government eligible firefighting costs. Federal fire management assistance is offered through the President’s Disaster Relief Fund.

Eligible costs covered by the assistance can include equipment use, supplies, field camps, repair and replacement; tools and activities related to mobilization and demobilization.

Gov. Henry lauded firefighters throughout Oklahoma.

“Firefighters throughout Oklahoma have been doing a tremendous job battling the wildfires that have been springing up in all parts of the state,” he said. “Their bravery, determination and skill are helping save lives and property, and we are all grateful for their service.”

Source: Oklahoma Governor