Federal Recreational Trail Program Grant

The Federal Recreational Trail Program, managed by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, aims to enhance motorized and non-motorized trails through financial support. Eligible projects include trail maintenance, development, and educational programs. This initiative prioritizes projects involving local partnerships and environmental sustainability.

Program purpose:

• To encourage the maintenance and development of motorized, non-motorized, and diversified trails by providing funding assistance.
• Eligible projects:

Motorized and non-motorized trail projects; maintenance/restoration of existing recreational trails; development/ rehabilitation of recreational trail linkages, including trail side and trail head facilities; environmental awareness and safety education programs relating to the use of recreational trails; and redesign/relocation of trails to benefit/minimize the impact to the natural environment.
Level of assistance:
A 25% cash or in-kind match for eligible elements of the project proposal is required. Costs must be incurred and paid for before reimbursement. Neither this funding source nor the cash match may be used to meet existing payroll; only contract services, materials and supplies are reimbursable. Federal funds can in some cases be used as match for this program.
The minimum grant request is $2,500, and the maximum trail grant award is $150,000. Maximum request per equipment grant is $75,000. Equipment grant requests also require a 25% secured match.
General information:
Funding comes from revenue received by the Federal Highway Trust Fund. All projects funded in 2023 must be completed by June 30, 2025.