Bismarck, N.D. (AP) North Dakota's land board has awarded $4.8 million in grants to support emergency medical services and fire districts in in the state's oil-producing region.
Officials say the grants are part of a program aimed at helping communities deal with the effects of rapid energy development.
The land board this week approved funding for seven projects in the oil patch, mostly to purchase emergency gear and vehicles. Watford City is getting $410,000 for emergency medical service employee support and housing.
The land board is headed by Governor Jack Dalrymple.