D. VFA Objectives

The objectives of the VFA Program are listed below and are located in the Forest Service Manual (FSM) 3150.2.

1. Provide financial, technical, and related assistance to State foresters to organize, train, and equip local firefighting forces for fire protection in rural areas and communities of 10,000 persons or less.
2. Determine benefits and costs of fire protection of rural lands and evaluate the distribution of these costs and benefits among all appropriate entities.
3. Develop policy and monitor States' administration of equipment and supplies purchased in whole or in part with VFA Program funds.
4. Encourage and assist States in the use of FEPP in achieving the goals and objectives of the VFA Program.
5. Encourage and assist the States in use of Federal procurement systems and sources of supply to achieve the goals and objectives of the VFA Program.

In implementing these objectives the Forest Service and State foresters endeavor to:

• Organize, train, and equip fire departments in unprotected rural areas and rural communities.
• Assist qualifying fire departments in saving lives and protecting property in unprotected or inadequately protected rural areas.
• Prevent or reduce loss of life, protect financial investments, and enhance environmental quality to revitalize rural America.
• Increase the opportunity for rural fire departments to acquire FEPP, training, and current information on techniques of fire prevention.