HARRISBURG — About $16,000 in state funds have been awarded to six fire companies in the Butler County area.

That is part of more than $500,000 in state grants to help rural communities guard against the threat of fires in forests and other undeveloped areas, Department of Conservation and Natural Resources announced Thursday.

In Butler County, the Adams Area Fire District got $5,000, the Callery Volunteer Fire Company got $5,627, and the Chicora Hose and Relief Association got $1,160.

In Mercer County, the Pine Township Engine Company got $792, and the Springfield Township Volunteer Fire Department got $1,011.

Additionally, the Clintonville Volunteer Fire Department in Venango County got $3,310.

The grants to 130 rural fire departments will be used to buy wildfire-suppression equipment and protective clothing.

Firefighting forces in rural areas or communities with fewer than 10,000 residents qualified to apply for the aid.