DCNR Circuit Rider Grant

DCNR Circuit Rider Grant

Status: ACTIVE
Funder: Pennsylvania Department of Conservation & Natural Resources (DCNR)
Last Updated: December 15, 2025

Summary

The DCNR Circuit Rider Grant offers funding to support the hiring of full-time staff for regional park, recreation, and conservation initiatives. Eligible applicants include county and municipal governments, as well as multi-municipal agencies. Grant funding covers salaries and approved training expenses, decreasing over four years from 100% in the first year to 25% in the fourth year. This program enhances local capacity for effective recreation and conservation management.

Overview

Apply for Circuit Rider Grants Explore Circuit Rider Grant opportunities to hire staff related to recreation and conservation projects, and complete your application form online. What Can Be Funded? Circuit rider grants support the hiring of a full-time staff person to provide regional park, recreation, and conservation programs and services. Example positions include: Multi-municipal recreation and parks directorCounty greenway and open space coordinatorTrail planner to support development of a regional trail network What Is the Typical Grant Size? Grant funding includes the circuit rider’s salary, plus approved training and mentoring expenses. Funding decreases annually over four years: First year – 100 percent of gross salarySecond year – 75 percent of gross salaryThird year – 50 percent of gross salaryFourth year – 25 percent of gross salary

Eligibility

You can learn more about this opportunity by visiting the funder's website. County and municipal governmentsEligible multi-municipal agencies